Issue - meetings

To seek Cabinet’s approval for the adoption of the updated Damp, Condensation and Mould Policy 2026-2029 (Appendix 3) (report of the Service Director – Housing enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Service Director – Housing which sought Cabinet approval for the adoption of the updated Damp, Condensation and Mould Policy 2026-2029 (Appendix 3).

Cabinet was advised that the revised policy had been developed in response to legislative changes introduced in September 2025, ensuring continued compliance with Awaab’s Law and strengthening the Council’s approach through meaningful tenant engagement.

The Portfolio Holder highlighted the significant progress made to date, including:

• Compliance with the new legislative requirements through the introduction of clear timescales and processes to meet the standards set out in Awaab’s Law.
• Enhanced tenant engagement through Property Focus Groups, the Complaints and Performance Focus Group, the Tenant Influence Panel, and targeted surveys involving tenants directly affected by damp, condensation and mould issues.
• Service improvements driven by tenant feedback, including clearer communications, more regular updates, and greater clarity regarding the respective responsibilities of the Council and tenants.

Cabinet was informed that the revised policy reflected both tenant feedback and service performance data, particularly in relation to communication and follow-up processes, and would support a more transparent, responsive and customer-focused service.

During discussion, Members recognised that damp, condensation and mould remained a significant issue nationally. Cabinet welcomed the proactive work undertaken by the Housing Service and noted that the Council was well placed in responding to the legislative changes and improving outcomes for tenants.

Cabinet commended officers for their continued work in addressing damp, condensation and mould issues and supporting residents through improved services and engagement.

DECISION:

1.    That Cabinet adopts the revised Housing Damp Condensation and Mould (DCM) Policy 2026-2029.

2.    That Cabinet delegates minor operational amendments and/or legislative changes to the Housing Damp Condensation and Mould (DCM) Policy 2026-2029 to the Service Director for Housing in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Operational Housing.

(Other options considered:

·       Do Nothing: This was considered but dismissed because it would undermine the Council’s commitment to tenant involvement and could result in a policy that does not fully address tenant needs.

Reasons for decision:

·       Incorporating tenant feedback strengthens the policy’s relevance and effectiveness, improving trust and satisfaction.)

To consider the updated Damp, Condensation and Mould Policy 2026 (Appendix 2) (report of the Assistant Director – Housing enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Assistant Director – Housing which asked members to consider the updated Damp, Condensation and Mould Policy 2026 (Appendix 2).

The Housing Repairs Manager presented the updated Damp, Condensation and Mould Policy for 2026, and the following main points were highlighted:

·         The policy had been revised to comply with Awaab’s Law and had been informed by extensive tenant engagement;

·         Feedback from focus groups, surveys and tenant panels had highlighted the need for clearer communication, timely updates and better understanding of responsibilities; and

·         Such improvements, alongside learning from complaints and stock condition data, had been incorporated into the revised policy to strengthen processes, transparency and tenant support, while maintaining legislative compliance.

Members considered the report and made the following comments:

• Members sought reassurance that the revised policy would lead to clearer and more consistent communication with tenants throughout the damp, condensation, and mould process, and asked what safeguards were in place to maintain contact where officers were on leave or absent.
  • The Housing Repairs Manager explained that a dedicated Damp and Mould Team had been established, with revised scripts, follow?up letters and defined contact points introduced to better manage tenant expectations. Ownership of cases now remained with the Damp and Mould Team throughout, supported by shared inboxes, a central telephone number and office cover arrangements to ensure continuity of communication.

• Members asked whether the policy applied to outbuildings such as external toilets or washing facilities.
  • The Housing Repairs Manager responded that:
    • The Council remained responsible for the external structure of all buildings and for internal areas classed as habitable or providing essential facilities, such as outside toilets. Non?habitable structures, such as storage sheds, were generally excluded; and
    • Each case would be assessed individually, and that advice or low?level treatment would still be offered where appropriate.

• Members queried the use of the term ‘decanted’ within the policy flowchart and sought clarity on whether this referred to temporarily removing tenants from their homes.
  • The Housing Repairs Manager confirmed that decanting referred to temporary relocation in circumstances where tenant safety required this, such as significant hazards requiring urgent repair. The  terminology could be softened, for example by using ‘temporarily relocated’, while maintaining clarity around the process.

• Members asked whether they would be able to view the risk assessment and triage tools used to assess damp and mould cases.
  • The Housing Repairs Manager responded that:
    • The triage tools assessed both the severity of the issue and household vulnerabilities to determine response priority. That the documentation would be circulated to members by email after the meeting.

• Members identified an error within the table at the bottom of Appendix 3 and asked whether the date should read 16 December 2025.
  • The Housing Repairs Manager confirmed this would be corrected.

• Members raised concerns about contractors cancelling or attending appointments at short notice and asked how contractors were being held to account and whether repeat issues were monitored.
  • The Housing Repairs Manager explained that contractor performance was reviewed regularly  ...  view the full minutes text for item 94