Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: January 14, 2025

Purpose:     Cabinet is recommended to approve the damp and mould policy. 

Content: Cabinet: (1)          approved the Damp and Mould Policy at Appendix 1 of the report; and (2)          delegated, to the Strategic Director of Place, in consultation with the Portfolio Lead Member for Housing & Regeneration, and Director of Governance and Law, authority to amend the policy in response to any new legal requirements.   Options & Alternatives Considered The options that have been considered are: Option 1: Do not publish or delay having a separate damp and mould policy (not recommended). The council could rely on the existing Housing Repairs Policy, or the council could opt to delay introduction of a damp and mould policy until new legal requirements are in force. This is not recommended because the separate policy ensures that residents know how to report damp and mould, the service they should expect once reported and mitigates financial and reputational risks, supporting the council to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements.  Option 2: Publish the proposed policy covering council housing combined with a delegation from Cabinet to bring the policy into line with any new legal requirements (recommended option). This option would address the requirements of the council in its position as a social landlord, and support compliance with the regulatory standards set by the Regulator of Social Housing and recommendations by the Housing Ombudsman, ensuring that residents know how to report damp and mould, the service they should expect once reported and mitigates financial and reputational risks.  Option 3: Create and publish one policy document covering all housing types, both social and private sector housing. The council has statutory powers and duties of investigation and enforcement for private sector rented properties under the Housing Act 2004. The council could develop a policy or framework document for damp and mould relating to all housing types, including temporary accommodation and private sector housing. This is not recommended as the broad nature of such a document would minimise the ability to address the specific responsibilities of the council as a social landlord and create a delay in publishing its position. It is advised that policies in relation to temporary accommodation and private rented sector housing continue to be addressed separately.