FINAL - JDDK Millmount News Summer Edition 2025 DIGITAL - Flipbook - Page 13
Walker, Newcastle Retro昀椀ts
2. Enhancing insulation and reducing thermal bridging
Older buildings, especially concrete-framed 昀氀ats, are prone to
cold spots where condensation can form. Addressing these
issues might involve installing continuous insulation to avoid cold
areas. Replacing old single-glazed windows and doors with highperformance ones helps reduce condensation. If external insulation
isn’t an option, adding internal wall insulation can prevent cold
surfaces that lead to mould.
3. Tenant education and engagement
While Awaab’s Law places responsibility on landlords, educating
tenants about proper home ventilation and heating practices is
essential. Many issues arise when ventilation systems are turned off
due to noise, energy use, or lack of understanding. We advocate for
clear user guides and training to provide tenants with straightforward
instructions on maintaining proper air昀氀ow and managing moisture
levels. Smart monitoring systems, which alert landlords when fans
are turned off, help ensure continuous ventilation without intrusive
inspections. Community engagement programs, such as hosting
workshops or information sessions, encourage tenant participation
in maintaining healthy homes.
Funding and compliance considerations
The 昀椀nancial implications of Awaab’s Law will be a major concern
for landlords, particularly housing associations managing large
portfolios. While there is currently no dedicated government funding
for compliance, some retro昀椀t grants and energy ef昀椀ciency funding
(such as the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund) may support
necessary upgrades.
Additionally, proactive investment in these improvements will not
only ensure compliance but also reduce long-term maintenance
costs and potential legal liabilities. With tenants increasingly aware
of their rights regarding damp and mould, landlords who fail to act
may face compensation claims and reputational damage.
Challenges in managing new builds
vs. older housing stock
The approach to damp and mould prevention varies signi昀椀cantly
between new builds and older properties. New builds are typically
better insulated and more airtight, reducing the likelihood of
condensation. However, this airtightness also means that welldesigned ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture entrapment.
Passivhaus standards, which we are beginning to implement,
ensure optimal indoor air quality with minimal energy use. Older
homes still have poor insulation, outdated ventilation, and thermal
bridging issues. Retro昀椀tting these homes needs careful planning to
improve insulation while ensuring good ventilation.
Looking ahead
At JDDK, we believe that Awaab’s Law presents an opportunity to
rede昀椀ne housing standards for the better. The lessons learned from
retro昀椀t projects and Passivhaus developments show that a wellventilated, properly insulated home is not just about compliance
– it’s about long-term tenant well-being, energy ef昀椀ciency, and
sustainability.
By combining diagnostic assessments, strategic retro昀椀t solutions,
and tenant education, landlords can not only comply with Awaab’s
Law but also protect their properties from future damp and mould
issues – creating healthier, longer-lasting homes.
For those looking to prepare ahead of the October 2025 deadline, we
offer expert guidance on damp and mould assessments, ventilation
strategies, and comprehensive retro昀椀t planning. Together, we can
create healthier, safer homes for all.
Summer 2023.
2025. Millmount. 13
