The Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week is returning for a second year this autumn. 

It comes at a crucial time with Awaab’s Law coming into effect from October, requiring social landlords to investigate and remedy damp and mould issues within strict timeframes. The government has indicated it could be extended to include private rental sector properties too, before the end of this parliament.

The week, run by safety consultancy Aico, last year saw over 600 participants join expert-led webinars.

The firm says it wants to build on this moment with Alco spokesperson Tony Boyle commenting: “The response twas 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.”

Another guide is being produced for renters on how to prevent and deal with damp and mould in their homes.

Boyle adds: “The scale of this issue is enormous, but by working together, we can make a real impact. We want to see policy changes, investment in housing standards, and a shift in how damp and mould are tackled at every level.”

Matthew Whiting, chief technical officer of ResiSure, comments: “The presence of damp and mould in the UK’s housing stock is an ongoing issue.

“We now need to focus more than ever on residents environments to ensure that they have safe monitored homes to live in.

“We welcome the return of damp and mould awareness week to keep the focus on this serious issue and to support new legislation to improve living standards.”

The week is between October 20 and 26.