The Executive - Individual Member Decisions meeting of Wokingham Council on Thursday 17 September 2026 approved a new Damp and Mould Policy for Housing Services. This policy establishes a framework for managing damp and mould risks in council-owned properties, ensuring compliance with new legislation and safeguarding residents' health and wellbeing.

Damp and Mould Policy Approved

The meeting saw the approval of the Housing Services Damp and Mould Policy. This new policy aims to ensure all residential properties managed by Wokingham Borough Council are free from damp and mould, with issues addressed promptly and effectively to safeguard residents' health. The policy has been developed in response to legislative and regulatory requirements, including the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, commonly known as Awaab's Law¹. This legislation imposes statutory obligations on social housing landlords to investigate and remedy hazards within prescribed timeframes.

The policy outlines the framework for managing damp and mould risks, defining roles, responsibilities, and governance structures. It will be supported by a Damp and Mould Management Plan, which details operational procedures, monitoring, and risk management. The decision to approve the policy was made by Cllr Stephen Conway, Leader of the Council and Executive Councillor for Housing, Partnerships and the Local Plan. No alternative options were considered, and no conflicts of interest were declared. The policy will become effective on 25 September 2026.