It’s Still With Us… Collaborating on Damp and Mould

A grounded conversation on why damp and mould persist, what Awaab’s Law changes, and why diagnosis, culture and collaboration matter more than ever. 

Damp and mould are not new, yet they remain one of the most persistent risks to health in social housing. In this episode of Making Housing Better, host Andy Cameron-Smith, joined by Lucy Mullineux of Baily Garner and Simon Thirtle from Ward Hadaway, explores why the issue continues to surface and what needs to change to achieve lasting improvement. 

A central theme is diagnosis. Lucy explains how damp and mould cases are too often addressed without fully identifying the underlying cause, with assumptions, limited investigative methods and inconsistent practice leading to repeat issues. Without robust diagnosis, remediation risks becoming short term intervention rather than long term prevention. 

Simon sets out how Awaab’s Law is reshaping expectations across the sector. While the current focus is on damp and mould and emergency hazards, the law will expand over the next two years to include excess cold and heat, fire and electrical risks, structural failure and hygiene related hazards. This phased approach reinforces the need for skilled assessment that considers both the condition of the home and the circumstances of the resident. 

The conversation reinforces that progress depends on competence, collaboration and a strategic approach to asset management, with prevention at the centre of healthier homes. 

Practical steps for housing providers 

• Strengthen frontline capability to support accurate triage and diagnosis. 

• Ensure immediate safety actions are followed by thorough investigation and long term solutions. 

• Prepare now for the wider range of hazards coming under Awaab’s Law. 

• Use asset data and planned investment to reduce repeat issues and protect residents’ health.