Retrofit Consultant Sophie Burgess shares expert advice on tackling the root causes of damp and mould in social housing.
Damp and mould in homes can be a serious issue. Not only can it damage the fabric of a building, it’s also a potential health risk for tenants. In a recent well-publicised case, “extensive” mould proved fatal for two-year-old Awaab Ishak. Such a tragedy highlights the importance of timely action.
Impacts of damp and mould
Damp and mould have significant impacts on physical health. In England, the NHS spends £38m per year on health issues related to damp homes. It spends a further £2.5m on sickness from the related problem of poor indoor air quality.
Beyond their link to various physical illnesses, dampness and mould can also affect mental health and general wellbeing. Children and the elderly are particularly at risk, as they tend to spend more time at home.
What are the causes?
Inefficient heating and poor ventilation bear a large responsibility for mould and damp. These hallmarks of energy inefficient housing provide mould with optimal conditions in which to proliferate. Cold indoor surfaces, like internal corners and window frames, create a humid microclimate. When the excess water vapour condenses, mould can flourish.
What can be done?
Typically, we treat mould as it happens. We might use anti-fungal sprays on the mould itself, or move furniture away from walls to improve air flow. Whilst these actions can help in the short term, they don’t fix the underlying problems with heating and ventilation. As a result, it’s likely that the mould will return.
The most effective way to reduce the risk of damp and mould is to upgrade a home’s energy efficiency. Installing energy efficiency measures increases a home’s ability to maintain warm temperatures and good air quality. It can also lower heating bills and reduce the risk of damp and mould.
Improved energy efficiency is best achieved through a whole house retrofit approach. This considers the interaction between insulation, airtightness, ventilation, and tenant behaviour in buildings. Expert retrofit coordinators create a phased plan for installing measures. If damp and mould is caused by defects in the building fabric, then these must be addressed before making any energy efficiency upgrades.
How does Changeworks help?
The Changeworks Net Zero Pathways service supports registered social landlords to develop and deliver net zero strategies building on Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2) analysis. Our tailored solutions offer end-to-end project management, including monitoring and evaluation. We can also provide energy advice and tenant engagement to ensure tenants feel informed and supported.
Our team of experts can develop and deliver projects to improve the wellbeing of tenants struggling with the impact of energy inefficient housing. Through upgrading your housing stock we can improve both home energy efficiency and air quality. As a result, we can help you protect your tenants from mould and damp.
Find out more about how Changeworks can support your Housing Association at the links below.