How we are tackling damp and mould

We are committed to finding and fixing damp and mould problems in our homes.

We have set up a damp and mould taskforce to ensure this work is prioritised.

Mould is harmful to your health. That is why it is important to contact us straight away if you find damp or mould so we can work together to find ways to resolve the issues you are experiencing. You can contact us on rbh.repairs@rbh.org.uk, by Freephone 0800 027 7769, or by making a report through the MyRBH portal.

If we find out there is damp or mould in your home we will send out an inspector to find out what could be causing the problem. They will then discuss with you what work needs to be completed and book in the appropriate tradespeople to fix these problems.

This work will be prioritised so that any high-risk issues are fixed as quickly as possible. If there are significant risks to you or your family’s health we will seek to fix the issues within 24 hours. If this is not possible, we may arrange with you a temporary move to another property whilst any repairs are completed. Whilst we prioritise high risk cases, we are still committed to dealing with every case of damp and mould, it may just mean that your job will take slightly longer.

After a job is complete, we will contact you to check that the damp or mould hasn’t returned. This check will happen at 6, 12 and 18 months after the repair was originally completed.

The measures we may be able to take to resolve your issues include:  

• Repair work to fix any structural or plumbing issues
• Improving ventilation in your home (for example installing extractor fans in your kitchen and bathroom)
• Mould treatment

There are also things you can do to help prevent condensation forming: 

• Open your windows or trickle vents once a day
• Dry your clothes either outside or in your bathroom with an extractor fan on or window open
• Keep your home warm (ideally 18 degrees centigrade)
• Cover your pans when cooking
• Avoid using paraffin or bottled gas heaters
• Wipe windows and sills to remove excess condensation

We know that not everyone can do all the above - for a wide variety of reasons. Every action that you take will help – but please get in touch to discuss options as soon as possible. For example, you can visit www.rbh.org.uk/costofliving for information on how to get support with your energy bills and other ways to keep warm.

Remember - excess condensation is the main cause of black mould. Mould is harmful to your health - please contact us straight away. Don't forget that you can contact us on rbh.repairs@rbh.org.uk, by Freephone 0800 027 7769, or by making a report through the MyRBH portal.