The recent Coroner’s ruling that toddler Awaab Ishak died from prolonged exposure to mould has once again shone a spotlight on the unacceptable condition of some homes in the social and private rental sectors.

According to government Housing Survey data, serious condensation and mould problems were present in 3% of all social sector homes and up to 10% of those rented by people from certain ethnic backgrounds including Black, African and Bangladeshi. While there is no equivalent data for private rented homes, the Housing Survey notes that 23% of private rented properties do not meet the Decent Home standard.