Description
Joel Malone emphasises that damp and mould in housing are primarily building-related issues, not tenant lifestyle problems, advocating for proper investigations, professional responsibility, and holistic solutions to ensure safe, dry homes.
Key Points:
- Shift in Responsibility:
The housing ombudsman and experts like Joel Malone stress that condensation damp and mould are structural or systemic issues, not the result of tenant behaviour, calling for landlords to take proactive responsibility. - Thorough Diagnostics Required:
Accurate diagnosis of damp requires specialized tools (e.g., moisture meters, thermal imaging) and professional expertise, distinguishing between primary causes like leaks and secondary condensation issues due to poor heating or insulation. - Holistic Solutions Over Quick Fixes:
Effective damp treatment involves integrated approaches considering heating, ventilation, and insulation rather than isolated measures like extractor fans or glazing, with priority given to ventilation and proper system design.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the role of building design and maintenance in the occurrence of condensation damp and mould.
- Understand the investigative tools and methods necessary to diagnose and differentiate types of damp accurately.
- Evaluate the importance of holistic, cost-effective strategies—including ventilation, heating, and insulation improvements—for long-term moisture control and tenant wellbeing.
