Damp and Mould team ready as law enforced

A new dedicated Damp and Mould team meets the requirements that Redditch Borough Council are obligated to implement due to the nationwide introduction of Awaab’s Law.

The law, passed by Parliament following the death of Awaab Ishack due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home, includes a requirement for landlords to investigate mould-related potential hazards within fourteen days and, where health risks are identified, begin repairs within a week.

It came into force on Monday (October 27). The borough council got ahead of the new law in January by appointing a specialist Damp and Mould team.

The ten-strong service, made up of multi-trade builders, decorators, a senior supervisor, and two administrators, joined the council’s existing maintenance workforce to tackle damp and mould issues swiftly and effectively across the council's 5,500 properties.

Cllr Sharon Harvey, Leader of Redditch Borough Council, said: “As a landlord, we have a duty to ensure our tenants live in safe, clean homes, and I am pleased to say we are well ahead of the national law coming into effect. This team is already taking major strides toward banishing damp and mould from our homes.”

The service, which costs just under £500,000 a year, means the new statutory response times can be met and that housing conditions for Redditch tenants affected by mould will improve.

Cllr Bill Hartnett, Portfolio Holder for Housing, added: “We’ve shown our tenants we take this issue seriously. Our local, in-house team is improving our service and cutting waiting times cost-effectively.”

As the weather turns colder the council is encouraging tenants to keep their homes properly ventilated and report any concerns promptly.

For tips and support, visit Preventing damp and black mould | Redditchbc.gov.uk.