Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, supported Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week from 20-26 October, an industry initiative intended to encourage collaboration across the housing sector to address damp and mould in homes.
Government figures published in 2024 show more than seven million UK households are affected by damp and mould.
The issue is estimated to cost the NHS about £1.4 billion a year, contributing to wider societal costs of around £15.4 billion.
Industry collaboration to improve housing standards
As part of the awareness week, Aico provided free resources and guidance for housing providers, landlords, and contractors.
More than 200 people registered to take part, with support from organisations including AllergyUK, the Chartered Institute of Housing, and Trowers & Hamlins.
The event included three webinars:
The first, hosted by Professor John Edwards, Director of Edwards Hart, examined causes of damp, mould, and condensation, as well as offering practical recommendations for surveyors, contractors, and housing providers.
“We have got to understand the causes of problems and deal with the causes,” noted Edwards. “We need to be proactive and undertake preventative actions.”
A second session, led by legal specialists from Ashfords, reviewed the current legal framework, recent case law, and compliance requirements for landlords and housing providers.
The session included an overview of Awaab’s Law and its implications for statutory timelines to investigate and remedy health hazards.
The third webinar featured Dave Batsford, Regional Surveying Manager at whg, who outlined measures taken by a social landlord to improve housing conditions and described how tenant welfare, legal responsibilities, and financial constraints are balanced when addressing damp and mould.
Tony Boyle, Regional Director at Aico, comments, “The response to the first Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week was fantastic, with huge engagement from housing associations, tenants, and policymakers.
“But that was just the beginning. This year, we’re aiming to reach even more people, spark more action, and continue making progress towards healthier homes for all.
“With the introduction of Awaab’s Law, there will now be a legal mandate to tackle damp and mould with urgency.
“We want to ensure landlords, tenants, and housing professionals have the resources they need to understand their responsibilities and take meaningful action.”
The awareness week forms part of Aico’s broader activity to support home life safety and assist housing organisations in improving living conditions across the UK.
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