Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy

1.1 As a landlord, Gateshead Council is responsible for the maintenance and repairs to homes, communal blocks, and other properties we own and manage. This includes domestic and non-domestic properties to ensure they remain safe for tenants and building users.

1.2 We are committed to providing safe, healthy, energy efficient and comfortable homes for our tenants. This policy enables us to diagnose, respond to and effectively manage reports of damp, mould and condensation within our properties.

1.3 We recognise the impact that damp, condensation, and mould can have on tenants, including distress, inconvenience and concerns about health and wellbeing.  It is also important that tenants report any issues, so we can work quickly to help resolve the problems. We proactively encourage tenants to report issues of damp and mould and provide multiple accessible platforms for tenants to access the repairs service.

1.4 This policy outlines our approach to the prevention, management and rectification of instances of damp and mould in council owned homes.

1.5 We will implement a data-led approach to damp, mould and condensation by conducting effective investigation of issues of damp, mould and condensation and carrying out effective repairs to eradicate it.

1.6 We will arrange an inspection for properties where a tenant reports damp and mould. The inspection may identify defects and disrepair in the property. In this instance repairs and remedial work will be arranged.  However, this may not identify a defect that is not immediately apparent on inspection but is otherwise attributable to defects in the construction or refurbishment of the property. The defect may be concealed and may only be apparent at a later date. This is commonly known as a latent or inherent defect.

1.7 A specialist team will take direct control of all cases of severe mould.  All severe cases will be assessed to determine if there is an immediate health risk to the tenant(s).  If required, alternative accommodation arrangements may be made while remedial works are undertaken and in line with the Decant Policy.

1.8 We will ensure that the appropriate resources, skills, systems, and procedures are in place to support this policy. This will ensure that Gateshead Council continues to be compliant with the Decent Homes Standard: review (opens new window).

1.9 This policy and supporting procedures are living documents that will consider the recommendations of the Housing Ombudsman Service Report - Spotlight on: Damp and Mould (published October 2021) (opens new window). This includes our approach to effective diagnosis, proactive interventions, appropriate actions (specific to the needs of the tenant), effective communication, and aftercare.