Brent Council issues details on how it will comply with Awaab's Law to ensure safe and hazard free council housing

 Brent Renters Union launch #NotAnotherWinter Campaign 2023

 

I wrote recently about Brent's Housing Revenue Account and the strain it is under financially and regarding capacity to implement repairs and Awaab's law.

Today the Council issued an update regarding Awaab's Law:

Awaab's Law  A new law came into effect on Monday 27 October to ensure social housing is safe, healthy and free from serious hazards. The law is named after Awaab Ishak, aged two, who tragically died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to damp and mould in his home. Under this law, social landlords like us must act quickly whenever residents report issues such as damp and mould. When you report emergency hazards or damp or mould, here’s what will happen: Emergency hazards (for example, dangerous electrical faults, damaged external doors or windows, or major leaks) will be investigated and made safe within 24 hours Significant damp or mould will be investigated within 10 working days and made safe within five working days If further work is needed to prevent the hazard returning, we’ll start or plan the repairs within five working days. All work will begin within 12 weeks at the latest You’ll receive a report and action plan within three days of our visit We’ll keep you informed throughout the process If there’s significant damp and mould, we’ll support you through the next steps If you notice any of the following, please report it as soon as possible: Damp, mould or condensation that keeps coming back Leaks or plumbing issues Cracks in walls or ceilings Broken windows or ventilation Any condition that affects your health or safety To report an emergency, urgent, routine or standard repair call: 020 8937 2400. You can also report non-urgent repairs online via My Account.

Preventing Damp and Mould While Awaab’s Law ensures your home is safe and free from hazards, there are also simple steps you can take to help keep damp and mould at bay this winter: Let air flow Open windows regularly, especially after cooking or bathing Keep trickle vents or air bricks clear and open Avoid blocking air vents or covering radiators with furniture Control condensation Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms if fitted Wipe away moisture on windows and sills in the morning Cover pans when cooking Dry clothes outdoors when possible, or use a vented tumble dryer Keep your home warm Try to maintain a steady temperature - cold homes are more prone to condensation Use your heating system efficiently; small amounts of heat throughout the day can help Report problems early Tell us about leaks, broken extractor fans, or recurring mould straight away Don’t try to paint over mould - this only hides the problem temporarily If you have any questions about damp and mould please get in touch with our dedicated team by emailing: dampandmould@brent.gov.uk.

Meanwhile the law applies only to social housing but there is a huge problem in the private rented sector. The Brent Renters Union launched their 2023 campaign with this statement calling on Brent Council to take action against private landlords:

 

More than 10,000 private rented homes in Brent have a serious health hazard. Damp and mould are making us sick, leading to asthma, respiratory issues, skin conditions, and  mould poisoning. 

Our children’s health is in crisis because landlords are being allowed to get away with not keeping our homes safe. Damp and mould mean people can’t use some rooms, and are overcrowded in the others. This meant that Church End had the highest Covid death rate in the country. 

Brent council has a legal duty to make sure our homes are safe but their current plan isn’t good enough. In the areas of Brent where housing is most dangerous, they’re only promising to deal with 10% of the most serious problems this year. What about the other 90% of renters left with unsafe homes?

It doesn’t have to be like this. Members of the London Renters Union in Brent have come together to create an action plan for how the council can hold landlords accountable and keep us safe. Add your name to our campaign. Together we can win safer homes for everyone. 

If you are part of an organisation, please ask them to support the campaign by sharing this petition, and 

For background info, see our factsheet here