Damp and mould in social homes: Ombudsman case studies
Explore how social landlords can improve damp and mould responses through Ombudsman case studies, highlighting proactive strategies, avoiding tenant blame, and new regulations under Awaab’s Law (effective October 2025).
Damp, cold and full of mould: The reality of housing in the private rented sector
UK private renters face cold, damp homes due to poor insulation, costing £350+ extra annually. 2.7M households, including 1.6M children, endure health risks. Urgent calls for stricter energy standards and tenant protections.
English Housing Survey 2021 to 2022: headline report
The English Housing Survey 2021 to 2022 provides initial findings on people’s housing circumstances, the condition, and energy efficiency of housing stock in England.
Health inequalities: Cold or damp homes
This UK Parliament briefing examines health inequalities caused by cold/damp homes, covering health impacts, vulnerable populations, NHS costs, and policy responses to improve housing standards and energy affordability.
Healthy Homes - Children and Young Persons Asthma Opportunity - Discussion Paper 04 Nov 2024
Proposing a systemic CYP Asthma prevention initiative through healthier homes, integrating community, digital, and preventative strategies across health, housing, and stakeholders to reduce respiratory risks.
Housing Ombudsman statement on Awaab’s Law
The UK government enforces Awaab’s Law from October 2025, requiring social landlords to address damp/mould within strict deadlines, expanding to other hazards in 2026 to protect renters’ right to safe housing.
Housing with damp problems
Analysis of 2017-2019 English Housing Survey data reveals higher damp prevalence in Mixed White & Black Caribbean (13%), Bangladeshi (10%), Black African (9%), and Pakistani (8%) households compared to White British (3%), highlighting ethnic housing disparities.
Landlord failings on inspections leaving children exposed to damp and mould, as Ombudsman shares latest learning from complaints
The Housing Ombudsman reports severe landlord inspection failures, leaving children in damp/mould-ridden homes. Urgent improvements needed as Awaab’s Law mandates stricter social housing standards from October 2025.
Psychological effects of mould and damp in the home: scoping review
Spotlight on: Damp and mould. It's not lifestyle
No one can have failed to have been shocked by the conditions some residents evidenced in media coverage earlier this year. While most social housing is of a decent standard it is clear this is an area where, compared to others, residents feel a great deal of frustration and dissatisfaction. Cases like those shown in the media are thankfully a minority, however, even one such case is one too many. The recent media coverage clearly demonstrates the significant impact on residents when things do go wrong, complaints are not responded to appropriately, and lessons are not learned.
Stagnating progress on damp, mouldy homes – The UK Housing Review 2023
Longitudinal study reveals energy poverty (inadequate heating affordability) increases parental depression risk, particularly in mothers of young children. Irish cohort data shows significant mental health impacts warranting policy interventions for housing efficiency.
The cost of poor housing in England: 2021 Briefing Paper
Poor housing in England costs the NHS £1.4bn annually, with societal impacts reaching £18.5bn. The BRE report highlights cold homes, falls, and dampness as key hazards, urging targeted housing improvements.
