Propertymark calls for tough consumer protection - London Wallet

With Damp and Mould Action and Awareness Week having just concluded, Propertymark is keen to highlight that it is closely engaged with the UK government to help enhance standards on the matter.

With more than 7 million homes throughout the UK being impacted by damp and mould, it is imperative recent changes in law following the death of Awaab Ishak, who died from exposure to mould at his rented home back in 2020, are robustly enforced. There must be clear public knowledge on how to report issues and the timeframes for which they must be addressed.

At a time when the NHS spends around £1.4bn a year on treating illnesses associated with living in a cold or damp property, it remains important that all measures are taken to raise standards and ensure tenants are better protected.

A recent survey conducted by the The Property Ombudsman found that lettings agents reported 3,280 properties with current damp and mould issues, 81% of which were managed directly by landlords. Although most agents felt that landlords understood that damp and mould can have serious consequences, in a minority of some property owners had to be educated about the potential impacts before agreeing to take any action.

Nathan Emerson, CEO at Propertymark, said: “This is a powerful initiative which will help raise awareness of issues surrounding damp and mould and the real-world devastation it can cause if left unrectified. It is important to have tough consumer protections in place and raise a strong public awareness of how such issues can be reported, as well as extensive knowledge on the timelines for which issues surround damp and mould must be rectified.”