Brent Council has adopted a new zero-tolerance policy on damp and mould in its social housing as it prepares to comply with the requirements of Awaab’s Law.
The new policy, approved by the council’s Cabinet this week, commits the local authority to responding to emergency reports within 24 hours and completing repairs within strict deadlines.
The measures follow the introduction of Awaab’s Law, named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died in 2022 after developing a severe respiratory condition linked to prolonged exposure to black mould in his home.
The council said the policy demonstrates its commitment to raising housing standards and improving conditions for tenants across its housing stock of around 12,000 homes.
Under the new rules, emergency cases must receive a response within 24 hours. Inspections will take place within 10 days. Repair work must begin within five days of an inspection, while more extensive remediation work should be completed within 12 weeks where necessary.
Brent Council currently has around 320 active damp and mould cases. It also receives an average of 34 new reports every week, with numbers expected to increase during the winter months.
Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters, Cllr Robert Johnson, said the policy would provide residents with greater confidence and accountability. “These standards provide residents with clear guidance and greater assurance and accountability, while helping us identify and address issues before they escalate,” he said.
He added that the council would adopt a risk-based approach, ensuring additional support is provided to residents who are most vulnerable.
The policy places a strong emphasis on prevention, early intervention and improved communication with tenants. It also commits the council to avoiding assumptions that damp and mould problems are caused by residents’ lifestyles.
Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health, Cllr Liz Dixon, described damp and mould as significant public health concerns rather than simply housing maintenance issues.
“We know they have serious consequences for residents, particularly children, older people, pregnant women, disabled residents and those with respiratory conditions,” she said.
“This policy adopts a zero-tolerance approach and makes clear that we will not unfairly attribute damp and mould to residents’ lifestyles.”
She added that while the policy ensures compliance with Awaab’s Law, it also supports the council’s wider goal of reducing health inequalities and improving housing standards.
The policy will be funded through the council’s Housing Revenue Account, which is used to meet its responsibilities as a social landlord.
Council Leader Muhammed Butt said the new measures were about ensuring residents could live in safe, decent homes. “It’s not about apportioning blame to anyone,” he said.
“It’s about making sure we’re taking our responsibilities seriously and responding in a timely manner when issues are raised. It’s about people being able to live good-quality, decent lives in good-quality accommodation.”
