Damp and mould
Councils are currently focusing on implementing Awaab's Law and addressing rising resident complaints about damp and mould in housing.
In September 2026, an internal audit flagged Barnet Group for high-risk findings in damp and mould, including weaknesses in compliance with Awaab's Law timescales, a report to the Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee said. Councils are focusing on implementing Awaab's Law, which became effective in October 2025, imposing strict timeframes for rectifying damp and mould issues. Lambeth Council reviewed its preparations in July 2026, while Hammersmith and Fulham Council plans an audit for 2026/27 focusing on compliance.
Resident satisfaction with housing complaint handling remains a key concern, with a September 2026 report to Lewisham's Housing Select Committee revealing only 37% of tenants were satisfied. Damp and mould was identified as a primary driver for a significant surge in housing complaints at Harrow Council, which saw an 89% rise in Stage 1 complaints in 2025-26, according to its Annual Housing Complaints Report in July 2026. Brent Council also heard resident concerns about mould in new housing developments in July 2026.
Councils are committing significant investment to address damp and mould and improve housing stock. Lewisham Council approved a £600 million investment in February 2026 to build new homes and tackle damp and mould in existing properties. Harrow Council approved a £97.6 million capital works programme in March 2026, emphasising tackling damp and mould. Tower Hamlets Council approved a £609 million Housing Asset Management Strategy for 2026-2031 in March 2026 to ensure homes are safe and well-maintained.
Key facts
- Barnet Group was flagged for high-risk findings in damp and mould, including Awaab's Law compliance, in September 2026. Source
- Lewisham residents reported only 37% satisfaction with housing complaint handling in September 2026. Source
- Harrow Council saw an 89% rise in Stage 1 housing complaints in 2025-26, with damp and mould as a primary driver. Source
- Awaab's Law became effective on 27 October 2025, imposing strict timeframes for rectifying damp and mould issues. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- Lewisham Council approved a £600 million investment in February 2026 to build new homes and tackle damp and mould. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.