Decision details

The Cabinet Member with the Health and Housing Portfolio introduced the report of the Group Director of Operations (previously circulated) requesting that consideration be given to the Housing Services Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy (also previously circulated).

The submitted report stated that Housing Services were committed to providing good quality, safe and energy efficient homes; the Council had a responsibility to ensure all of its homes were free from hazards, including damp, mould and condensation; and that the Housing Services Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy explained how the Council would ensure that prompt action would be taken to remedy issues and support tenants, offering guidance, advice, and assistance throughout the process.

Particular concern was raised at the meeting to the need for tenants to ventilate their homes during the current cost of living crisis and requested that the Council be mindful of those pressures if it needed to take any action.  The Cabinet Member with the Health and Housing Portfolio responded thereon.

RESOLVED – (a)  That the report be noted.

(b)  That the Housing Services Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy, as appended to the submitted report, be approved.

REASONS – (a)  The Social Housing Regulator’s Consumer Standards places a duty on social housing providers to provide their tenants with good quality accommodation.

(b)  The Social Housing Regulator also expects social housing providers to have a separate and specific policy on preventing and dealing with damp and mould in their homes.