Spotlight report on damp and mould – it’s not a lifestyle
Published in October 2021
Report summary
Damp and mould can be a complex and often frustrating issue. We recognise that some landlords are being proactive and that governing bodies are scrutinising approaches. This report aims to support these actions.
We have noted 2 key systemic issues that persist in cases across our casebook.
- over reliance on residents
- lack of overall responsibility for ensuring complaints are resolved
It is important for landlords to demonstrate to residents learning from damp and mould complaints. The Ombudsman would encourage landlord staff and managers to review the case studies and learning provided in this report, actively consider how they would have responded to the case and whether as an organisation they would have made the same mistakes.
What is in the damp and mould report?
There are 4 chapters in the report that look at:
- from reactive to proactive
- from inferring blame to taking responsibility
- from disrepair claims to resolution
- from complaints to a learning culture
The full report
The full report is available to view or download as a pdf.
View and download the full report (PDF)
Further learning on damp and mould
Damp and mould key topics page
Damp and mould is a reoccurring issue that continually arises in our case work.
Residents and landlords can use this page to find out more about this key topic including guidance, spotlight reports, and training options for landlords.
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