Vortice Addresses Need for Ventilation in Social Housing

In response to the recent Housing Ombudsman publication highlighting key lessons from severe maladministration decisions in handling damp and mould cases, Vortice UK, a leader in ventilation and mould prevention solutions, have stressed the need for robust measures to prevent such failures in social housing.

The latest publication is part of a series of maladministration reports to promote learning from cases that share a common theme. With the topic of damp and mould now dominating 50% of casework it will likely grow in prominence with the introduction of Awaab’s law into the private rental section.

Key insights from the Housing Ombudsman Severe Maladministration Report on Damp and Mould

1. Inspection & Repair Delays: The report reveals that many landlords are failing to conduct timely inspections and repairs, leading to deteriorating conditions for residents.
2. Health Impacts: Prolonged exposure to damp and mould has resulted in significant health issues for residents, including respiratory problems, asthma and eczema.
3. Insufficient Compensation: The Ombudsman noted instances where landlords provided inadequate compensation for severe service failure. With as little as £150 provided to a resident who had lost both their bedrooms to mould.
4. Organisational Risks: Poor record-keeping and unclear communication have led to increased costs and reputational damage for landlords.
5. Preparation for Awaab’s Law: The report underscores the need for landlords to adapt to upcoming legislative changes requiring timely responses to hazards such as damp and mould.

“This report highlights the critical need to address the root causes of damp and mould,” said Paul Harrington, Social Housing Sales Director at Vortice UK.

“At Vortice, we focus on delivering solutions that are both effective and sustainable, ensuring properties remain dry and healthy year-round.

“Unlike some Ventilation companies who simply provide equipment, we visit the property and assess the situation comprehensively, providing both the necessary solution and post installation certification to ensure everything complies with legislation.”

With the expected introduction of Awaab’s Law, which mandates stricter regulations and timelines for addressing issues like damp and mould, Vortice is poised to support social landlords in meeting these new requirements.

Their ventilation solutions aim to proactively tackle these challenges, to create healthier living environments and helping landlords stay compliant with future regulations.