Agenda item

Report of the Assistant Director – Housing and Revenues

The Assistant Director Housing and Revenue submitted a report (previously circulated) requesting that consideration be given to the draft Housing Services Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy (also previously circulated) prior to its consideration by Cabinet on 7 March 2023.

The submitted report stated that the Council has a responsibility to ensure its homes are free from hazards, including damp, mould and condensation; and the Housing Services Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy explains how the Council will ensure that prompt action is taken to remedy issues and support tenants, offering guidance, advice, and assistance throughout the process.

It was reported that the Council’s Housing Management Policy includes a specific section on the Council’s approach to dealing with damp, mould and condensation in Council homes; and that due to an expectation of the Regulator of Social Housing for all social housing providers to have a separate and specific policy on damp, mould and condensation, the Housing Services Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy has been developed to set out the Council’s approach to these issues.

Details were provided of the specific responsibilities for Darlington Borough Council as landlords as set out in the policy; the responsibility for tenants; and that consultation was undertaken with the Tenants Panel in January 2023 who were in support of the draft policy.

RESOLVED – That Members support the onward submission of the draft Housing Services Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy to Cabinet.