Housing Ombudsman launches damp and mould investigation

The Housing Ombudsman has launched first call for evidence to support an investigation which will look at damp and mould.

An initial review by the Ombudsman has identified a high rate of maladministration on cases that feature damp over the last two years.

Compensation is also high with a total of £68,000 ordered in the same period, indicating a significant impact on residents in some cases.

The call for evidence will enable the Ombudsman to make recommendations and share best practice to help landlords develop their services and improve the experience of residents.

‘A decent home is a fundamental need, but the impact of damp and mould can be significant on households, their health and their life chances,’ said Ombudsman, Richard Blakeway.

‘Our casebook gives cause for concern, with a high maladministration rate and sometimes substantial levels of compensation, although I am also concerned that we are not seeing cases where we could help and want to investigate further into this issue.

‘Using our new powers, we want to look in-depth at the response of social landlords to damp and mould issues. I want us to make far-reaching recommendations to promote greater understanding and learning, helping landlords develop their approach to the benefit of residents.’

This investigation follows the our report on complaints about heating, hot water and energy in social housing published in February, which examines another aspect of our casework that is fundamental to living in a decent home.

The aim is to publish the final report on damp and mould in the autumn.

The call for evidence will not respond to individual complaints. Residents can find more information on the complaint process here.

Photo Credit – Pixabay