Preventing damp and mould through overcrowding initiatives

In January, I wrote in Inside Housing about the success we have seen in supporting customers experiencing overcrowding, while looking ahead to the significant challenges it poses.

One very real issue residents face in overcrowded homes is damp and mould, especially in the winter months. It’s one that’s often overlooked, but the link is undeniable: too many people in too small a space leads to excess moisture, which in turn creates the perfect breeding ground for mould.

This isn’t just a matter of property maintenance—it’s a public health concern, especially for vulnerable residents like children and the elderly.

Last year, we set ourselves an ambitious target: to rehouse at least 100 overcrowded households. We achieved this in multiple ways, one being through managed moves—helping families transition into larger, more suitable homes—and encouraging downsizing where appropriate. By freeing up underused larger homes, we’re are better able to match families to the spaces they need.

But this isn’t just about moving people around. In a recent follow up piece with Inside Housing examining the link between overcrowding and damp and mould, I explained how the cost of inaction is significant.

It requires a united effort between housing providers, local authorities and policy makers to secure funding and ensure affordable, appropriately sized homes.

To find out how I believe we can continue to improve the lives of customers experiencing these issues, read my article for Inside Housing here.