Damp and Mould Policy

4.1    WHBC will proactively assess the condition of its properties on a rolling programme, including for damp and mould, by conducting surveys. Category 1 and 2 hazards will be captured during these routine stock condition surveys (SCS) carried out by in-house and external surveyors. 

4.2    WHBC will also utilise Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) data to understand the extent of vulnerability to damp and mould. EPC and assets data is held by WHBC. This will also provide a clear view of the retrofit interventions needed to improve our EPC ratings, and thereby the comfort and efficiency of the home.

4.3    Our investment plans will be reviewed each year against stock condition data, complaint trends, any repeat damp and mould cases and our Asset Grading model, to ensure we address any adverse performance trends etc. This will inform investment programmes such as loft insulation, windows etc.

4.4    Where WHBC undertakes retrofit works to improve performance of the property it will adhere to PAS 2035 principles, thereby ensuring a whole house retrofit approach avoiding the unintended consequence of damp caused by badly planned interventions.

4.5    WHBC will take every opportunity – voids stage, mutual exchanges, tenancy  audits etc. – to proactively address issues driving damp and mould cases.

4.6    We also expect other front line council staff and contractors that might be visiting council homes or contacting residents, to be aware of and report any damp and mould issues to us. We provide training to raise their awareness of these issues and the need to report them.

4.7    We will regularly review our customer communications regarding damp and mould to ensure it meets the current regulations and is easily understood and clear for residents.