Places for People has taken delivery of pioneering technology that transforms the way damp is managed in homes.
The social housing provider has procured 15 Building Moisture Index (BMI) diagnostic systems, which can analyse conditions within a building to protect against excess moisture.
Places for People are the first customers for the technology, launched by the Property Care Association (PCA) following a three-year research project with the University College London Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering (UCL IEDE).
The BMI system works by placing measurement devices including environmental sensors into different types of dwellings to measure conditions, such as temperature and relative humidity.
Working with bespoke software, results are calculated which show why an individual home is out of balance in terms of its moisture levels. The technology then prescribes the correct solutions to address the issue.
Mark Winstanley, Head of Asset Management at Places for People, said: “We have successfully used the BMI system to accurately identify the best way to reduce condensation and mould growth in customers’ homes.
“The clear reports also help us discuss with customers how they can get the most benefit from the changes we make.”
The BMI is now being made available in the UK by the PCA under a specialist company, Maple Research and Development.
Steve Hodgson, Chief Executive of the PCA, said: “Places for People is working to make lives better for its customers with the technology, which will have a significant impact on the quality of air indoors.
“We are delighted to be working with them on a solution that will have a major benefit in the management of homes and buildings.
“There’s a real demand for this solution and the PCA’s membership has supported its development both financially and by enabling the research team to tap into its expertise to create this new technique.”
In recent years, the PCA has reported a surge in the levels of excess atmospheric moisture in properties across the UK, with the trade body reporting that many of its 400 members are encountering higher levels of humidity and wetness in homes than ever before.
The research project with UCL was launched to look into this changing environment in UK homes and has studied in detail the condition of more than 60 properties nationwide, covering moisture production and analysis, to ensure accurate results.
The recently launched product has now been tested and validated by monitoring numerous private and social properties.
Dr Paula Lopez-Arce has led the research project. She said: “We believe this was one of the largest, most practical and challenging environmental monitoring projects of its type undertaken in UK homes.
“The data we have received has helped us to build a picture of the issues surrounding excess atmospheric moisture across a mixed portfolio including flats, bungalows, terraced and detached houses in different regions, to cover a representative mix of property types.
“With the BMI in place, property owners and managers can now better identify and quantify moisture problems, and evaluate effective, targeted ways to address any issues.
“The system helps avoid costly repairs claims and, crucially, improves housing quality and living conditions.
“It’s an exciting project and the end solution will have a transformational impact on the condition of homes worldwide, ensuring healthier environments and finding better solutions from the consequences of excessive indoors moisture levels.”
More details about the technology can be found at www.maple-diagnostics.com
