Purpose

Approval to commence tendering for a Damp and
Mould specialist services contract

Content

Having considered the comments
of the Landlord Services Advisory Board (Executive Working Group),
the Executive Co-Portfolio Holder for Housing (Operations) and
Services, Councillor Paul Rivers,
 
RESOLVED to,
 

Recommendation
 

1.    
Commence the procurement of a specialist works contractor for
the mitigation and prevention of damp, mould and condensation of
the affected Council’s Homes. The initial award will be for 3
years. Dependant on performance, strategy and budget – there
will be an option to extend the contract by a further 2 years
(broken into 1 yearly terms.)
 
The anticipated value of the contract over 5 years
is £1.5m.

 

2.    
An open procedure published on In-Tend as the route
to market.
 

3.    
The involvement and engagement of the tenant panel
as part of the procurement process.
 
Reason(s) for Recommendation:
 

1.    
Waverley Borough Council have a moral and legal duty
of care to keep our properties safe and compliant for our tenants
to live in.
 

2.    
Waverley Borough Council have a moral and legal duty
of care towards the health of their tenants, which can be affected
by mould and high moisture levels inside the property.
 

3.    
It is a requirement of the latest Government
guidance published on 7th September 2023 and updated on 15th August
2024 (
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2)
to understand and address the health risks of damp and mould in our
Council’s Homes.
 

4.    
Under Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018,
Waverley Borough Council must ensure that properties are free from
hazards, including damp and mould. Failure to comply, can result in
legal action from tenants.
 

5.    
Waverley Borough Council must meet the Housing
Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS): Damp and mould growth are
identified Category 1 (out of 29) health hazard under the HHSRS,
which requires landlords to address these issues to prevent health
effects.
 

6.    
Waverley Borough Council must adhere to the Landlord
and Tenant Act 1985, which mandates landlords to keep properties in
good repair. Damp and mould can cause significant damage to the
property and tenant’s belongings, leading to significant
compensation claims.
 

7.    
Waverley Borough Council is supporting the Decent
Homes Standard, which require the homes to be free of hazards, warm
and free of damp and mould.
 

8.    
Enhancing Tenant’s satisfaction and meeting
the Regulator of Social Housing Standards by reducing
tenant’s complaints and promoting tenant’s health and
wellbeing.
 

9.    
Minimising financial and reputational risks by
avoiding litigation, compensation claims and by enhancing
WBC’s reputation and supporting positive relationships with
the tenants and regulatory bodies.