Agenda item

Report attached

The Sub-Committee was presented with a report on the current issues relating to damp and mould including some of the measures that are currently being undertaken in relation to the issue. 

It was stated that the damp and mould issues within Havering is a complex matter with many contributing factors including historic building deficiencies that create surfaces areas that are more prone to condensate.

The housing stock in Havering comprised of a large number of dwellings constructed in and around the 1960’s. it was stated that dwellings constructed in the period were not subject to current building regulations and therefore lack the thermal values of modern construction.

The sub-committee was informed that the amount of condensation and mould can be increased by factors such as overcrowding and furniture, clothing, and bags being placed close to external walls as airflow is restricted and moisture containing air can settle more easily.

This can often result in resident’s belongings becoming damp and spoiled and consequently complaints and frustration from resident.

The cost of living crisis is also adding additional pressure, whereby residents cannot afford to use there heating.  

Many families within Havering are not legally overcrowded even though their living conditions may be very cramped. Larger families within smaller dwelling that have the building deficiencies highlighted in some of housing most common Archetypes will be at a far greater risk of condensation occurring.

The table in the presentation detailed how much moisture was created by daily tasks. It was explained that in supporting residents the service have improved processes to report a damp and mould concerns. It was stated that all residents who report damp and mould issues will be offered a surveyor’s inspection within a target time of 3 weeks.

Officer explained that surveyor undertake a detailed property inspection identifying any building defects, raising works orders to remedy any defect identified. The service will look at measures designed to help, such as installing better mechanical ventilation where appropriate. Officers will fully explain the cause of the mould to the resident and offer advice on moisture reduction and management, explaining the underlying issue that makes the dwelling more prone to condensation and how adjustments to life style can dramatically improve conditions and reduce condensation and subsequently mould.

It was stated that the repairs and capital teams liaise with each other on a regular basis to identify any problem blocks and look at developing its future capital programmes to alleviate some of the current issues through the service retrofit agenda.

The service indicated that it was exploring further external grant funding options such as Wave Three Decarbonisation Funding, that is yet to be announced by the government. Officers explained that the service was allocating £7million in 24/25 and £11million in 25/26 for energy efficiency measures on council properties which will help to address some of the current issues.

The sub-committee was informed that the damp and mould issues within Havering is a complex matter with many contributing factors including historic building deficiencies that create surfaces areas that are more prone to condensate. In response officers outlined the following responses:

•      Continuation of survey and inspection of every property where damp and mould issues have been reported and take remedial actions where needed.

•      Providing residents with detailed advice on how they can prevent mould growth in properties and offer advice on moisture reduction and management.

•      Offering all resident assistance in the form of a Damp & Mould MOT that includes a regular monthly mould wash programme over a four month period during the colder winter months.

•      Looking at measures such as improved extractor fans, draft excluders, window overhauls etc. where appropriate.

•      Identifying any problem blocks and consider whether these issues can be rectified as part of future capital programmes.

•      Exploring further external grant funding opportunities.

The Sub-Committee noted the report.