damp and mould

Housing Associations and their residents have faced many challenges during the COVID Pandemic, not least of all undertaking repairs and maintenance. Whilst some minor issues can be delayed, it is essential homes remain habitable and safe so some repairs and ongoing maintenance can still be carried out. But how can this be done safely? James Kane, from condensation and mould control specialist Airtech Solutions, explains more on what steps both engineers and households can take to protect each other during work in a home.

A poll of tenanted households, conducted by YouGov on behalf of Safeguard Europe, the UK’s leading specialist in damp-proofing and waterproofing technology, has revealed a new North-South divide.  Renters living in the South are more likely to encounter damp and mould in their homes than those living in the North.

The poll of 1,154 tenants, conducted earlier this year, found that in London, the East of England and the South East, the highest proportion of tenants reported encountering damp or mould while living in rented accommodation at 63%, 60% and 56% respectively. Meanwhile, fewer tenants had experienced such problems in the East Midlands, the North East and Scotland at 39%, 39% and 40% respectively.

Following decontamination, redecoration of most mould-afflicted properties will be required and Safeguard Europe now offers a choice of products in its Dryzone range to deliver a high-quality decorative finish to stained walls and other surfaces.

The problem of damp in the social housing sector is one of the most common complaints tenants make about their property.

Every year reports appear in the media highlighting such cases, with stories often linking to health fears over the issue.

With this in mind, national trade body the Property Care Association (PCA) has developed an in-house training programme to give specialists in the social housing and local authority sectors with responsibility for housing stock maintenance, a recognised route to qualification.

Safeguard Europe has introduced Dryzone Fast-Set Plaster, a renovation plaster that facilitates the rapid repair of treated damp walls owing to its setting time of only two hours.

Designed to eradicate mould from damp and poorly ventilated properties, Dryzone100 Mould Killer – from  Safeguard Europe provides a convenient, water-based, non-abrasive means of tackling this unsightly and unhealthy problem.

Research carried out across more than 300 local authorities in England and Wales has revealed a 12% tenant complaint rate relating to mould, damp and condensation.

The dangers of damp

If you have damp and mould in your home you're more likely to have respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma. Damp and mould can also affect the immune system.