Spotlight report on damp and mould – it’s not a lifestyle
This page provides a summary of the report. To read the report in full and view our recommendations, please download the PDF.
Published in October 2021
On this page
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)
The full Spotlight report
This page provides a summary of the report. To read the report in full and view our recommendations, please download the PDF.
Spotlight report on damp and mould - it's not a lifestyle (PDF)
Damp and mould eLearning for landlords
Spotlight report on damp and mould eLearning
This CPD-accredited module shares the findings and recommendations from our Spotlight on damp and mould report (October 2021) and the one-year-on follow-up. Learn what causes damp and mould and how to resolve related complaints.
What you'll learn:
- why damp and mould became a focus
- how complaints can help you learn and improve
- 10 success factors that make damp and mould plans work
Once you’ve completed the module, you can sign up for our virtual classroom. This will explore the recommendations in more depth and discuss how to embed them in your organisation.
Why take this course:
- it’s free and easy to access
- CPD-accredited
- includes practical tools and real scenarios
- ends with a short quiz and certificate
- gives you access to a virtual classroom for deeper learning
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.
Damp and mould podcast playlist
Listen to our damp and mould playlist for practical tips and real stories. Hear from experts and casework specialists to improve services and stop complaints.
View more Spotlight reports
Spotlight report on repairs and maintenance
This report reveals a 474% increase in repair complaints. It explores the critical role that trust plays in effective repairs and maintenance.
Spotlight report on attitudes, respect and rights
This report explores how current approaches for the sector are not working for residents with a vulnerability. With the need for a Royal Commission to create a long-term plan for social housing.
Spotlight report on knowledge and information management
This report reveals how landlord’s services can be held back by weaknesses in data and information. Calling for a need for better data systems to prevent simple service requests turning into lengthy complaints.