Takeaways from New Report into Damp and Mould in Social Housing

Following the Coroner’s report, the RSH asked all large registered social housing providers to submit evidence about damp and mould in their properties and how they are tackling it. Key findings from 386 responses include:

• Most providers are aware of damp and mould and are taking steps to address it, but more could be done
• A majority of tenants live in homes free from damp and mould, but where present, it can negatively affect health and wellbeing
• Some landlords submitted poor-quality responses, raising concerns about their commitment to tackling the issue

The RSH estimates that:

• Less than 0.2% of social homes have the most serious damp and mould problems
• 1-2% have serious problems
• 3-4% have notable damp and mould

Eight local authority landlords provided particularly poor responses, lacking up-to-date stock data, clear processes for addressing damp, and the ability to identify affected homes. These landlords are now engaging with the RSH.

Since the Coroner’s report, the RSH has received:

• 12 self-referrals from landlords for potential breaches of the Home Standard
• 38 referrals from other sources

The Home Standard sets expectations for social housing providers to deliver safe, high-quality homes and effective repair services.