A Perth and Kinross councillor has raised concerns about the quality of construction in council homes after repeated issues with damp. Mould sensors have been installed in 211 Perth and Kinross Council properties to detect damp and mould, with data being closely monitored by local officials. Councillor Frank Smith highlighted cases where tenants had their bathrooms replaced multiple times, only for damp problems to persist.
During a meeting where the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee approved the council’s Annual Assurance Statement, Cllr Smith questioned whether some houses were so poorly built that they needed to be replaced. He stated, “When a house seems to be covered in it and we’ve repeatedly repaired it, do we find the construction of the house is so bad that it has to come into consideration, maybe taking these houses away and replacing them?”
Elaine Ritchie, the strategic lead for Housing and Communities, assured that they have not encountered any properties so severely affected by damp that they needed to be demolished. She mentioned the proactive measures being taken, including the use of sensors to identify and address issues early on. The council’s Housing team confirmed a robust procedure for responding to reports of mould, damp, or condensation, with plans for further development work to tackle these issues effectively.
Councillor Smith emphasised ongoing problems with dampness in properties within his ward, suggesting a structural issue with some homes. Discussions also touched on behavioural factors contributing to damp problems, such as how tenants dry clothes and ventilate their homes. Tenant representative Lynne Palmer recommended the use of mould and mildew sprays as a quick solution for tenants.
The council expressed a commitment to analysing sensor data to improve their approach and address issues more efficiently. They are exploring the creation of a specialised Condensation, Mould, and Damp Team within their service to better support tenants facing these challenges. Councillors also discussed the need for better communication on behavioural and structural factors related to damp, mould, and condensation issues.
The meeting highlighted the importance of addressing construction quality and behavioural factors in tackling damp problems in council homes. By using sensor data and implementing targeted interventions, Perth and Kinross Council aims to enhance the living conditions for tenants and ensure the long-term sustainability of their housing stock.