An investigation has been launched into Haringey Council over concerns relating to ‘high risk’ damp and mould issues in the local authority’s housing stock.
Housing Ombudsman Richard Blakeway has launched an investigation into the council and the housing association L&Q to see if damp and mould issues are indicative of wider failings.
L&Q featured in the Ombudsman’s 2021 damp and mould Spotlight report, with maladministration findings in 50% of its damp and mould cases.
The organisation also has 32 open cases with the Ombudsman that have been identified as high risk and involve complaints handling, the handling of damp, mould and leaks reports, or both issues.
Haringey Council has 13 open cases identified as high risk and involving leaks, damp and mould. The Ombudsman has upheld more than three-quarters of cases determined since 1 April 2021 where leaks, damp and mould formed part of the investigation.
Mr Blakeway said: ‘After repeated failures in the past year by both of these landlords, we’ve seen a high number of cases concerning the landlords identified as high risk.
‘Under the circumstances, I’ve asked my team to expedite these investigations.
‘Other cases with us concern similar issues and may indicate a repeated failing. Conducting a further investigation, using our systemic powers under paragraph 49 of the Scheme to identify areas for both landlords to learn and improve, is therefore required.
‘At the end of the monitoring period, we will publish a learning report highlighting any issues we have identified in the cases investigated and make recommendations to the landlords where appropriate.’
The council has been contacted for comment.
