Black mould is more than an unpleasant sight in homes; it can have serious implications for both health and property integrity. For landlords, property managers, social housing providers and tenants alike, black mould health issues are a growing concern. The introduction of Awaab’s Law in the social housing sector and recently announced plans to extend this legislation to the private rented sector further emphasises the importance of identifying and resolving mould issues quickly – they can, quite literally, be a matter of life and death.
If you believe your home or a property you manage or own is host to black mould, you’re not alone – Stachybotrys, or black mould, is present in 16% of indoor air samples. However, just because it’s common doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous. With mould becoming more prevalent in households, Resisure has created an all-in-one solution for detecting, tracking and taking action against mould through our advanced monitoring platform, which provides insights into the presence of mould in properties across the UK. You can find out more about our technology by contacting us via the form at the end of this blog: but first, what even is black mould?
What Is Black Mould?
Black mould, scientifically known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is a toxic mould that thrives in damp, humid environments with poor ventilation. Recognisable by its dark green or black colour, black mould often appears in patches on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces where moisture collects. Buildings with persistent dampness, inadequate ventilation, or leaks are particularly vulnerable to black mould growth.
While mould spores are naturally present in the air, they only develop into harmful mould colonies when conditions are right. Once established, black mould can spread rapidly, often within 24–48 hours, and release toxic spores into the air, leading to significant health and structural risks.
Black Mould Health Issues
The presence of black mould can lead to a variety of health issues, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Some of the primary health concerns associated with black mould exposure include:
- Respiratory Problems: Black mould releases spores that irritate the respiratory system, causing coughing, wheezing, and nasal congestion. Over time, exposure can worsen asthma symptoms and contribute to chronic respiratory issues.
- Allergic Reactions: Black mould exposure often leads to allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, skin rashes, and itchy eyes. People with mould allergies can experience heightened symptoms, making living conditions unbearable in mould-infested areas.
- Neurological Symptoms: In severe cases, prolonged exposure to black mould has been linked to neurological symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and memory loss. Those most vulnerable include children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.
- Mental Health Impacts: Living in a mould-affected environment can contribute to stress, anxiety, and even depression. The physical discomfort and health concerns associated with black mould often affect individuals’ mental well-being as well.
Black mould health issues present significant challenges to landlords, who are responsible for providing a safe living environment for tenants. Resisure’s technology allows landlords to monitor a number of metrics including moisture, humidity, air quality and mould index, enabling early detection and prevention before black mould becomes a health hazard.
Structural Damage Caused by Black Mould
The impact of black mould extends beyond health issues—it can also compromise the structural integrity of a building. Black mould can feed on organic materials like wood, drywall, and insulation, causing them to weaken and degrade over time. The structural damage that black mould can cause includes:
- Degraded Walls and Ceilings: Black mould weakens and discolours surfaces, leading to warping and eventual crumbling of walls and ceilings if left untreated.
- Rotting Wood: Mould growth breaks down cellulose in wood, leading to rot in beams, floors, and other structural elements that can become unsafe over time.
- Damaged Insulation: Mould infiltrates insulation materials, rendering them ineffective and creating hidden areas where mould can continue to grow undetected.
- Costly Repairs: If left unchecked, black mould damage can lead to extensive and expensive repairs, including the replacement of structural materials and professional mould remediation.
Awaab’s Law: Protecting Tenants from Mould Risks
In response to the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, a young boy whose life was cut short by mould-related health complications, the UK government introduced Awaab’s Law. This legislation mandates that social housing landlords address damp and mould issues promptly, requiring investigation and resolution within a specific timeframe.
Awaab’s Law underscores the importance of proactive black mould management to prevent health issues and protect tenants. It reinforces landlords’ responsibility to provide safe, healthy living conditions, making timely mould detection essential. Failure to comply with the law can result in fines and other legal repercussions, making a proactive approach crucial. Resisure’s mould detection technology aligns with Awaab’s Law by allowing landlords to monitor environmental conditions that may lead to mould growth, ensuring timely interventions that keep tenants safe and properties compliant.
What to Do About Black Mould: Prevention and Remediation
Taking steps to prevent black mould health issues and structural damage requires both preventive actions and, when necessary, professional intervention. Here’s a guide on how to manage black mould in rental properties effectively:
- Monitor Environmental Conditions: Monitoring humidity and temperature levels can help you prevent mould growth. Resisure’s wireless smart device makes it easy to track these environmental factors across your property portfolio.
- Identify and Repair Leaks: Address any leaks in roofs, windows, and plumbing as soon as they’re identified. Reducing moisture in the property is one of the most effective ways to prevent black mould.
- Improve Ventilation: Encourage tenants to ventilate their homes, especially in areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Installing extractor fans can significantly reduce moisture build-up.
- Clean Visible Mould: Small mould patches can sometimes be managed with specialised cleaning products, but addressing the root cause of moisture is essential to prevent regrowth.
How Resisure Can Help You Prevent Black Mould Health Issues
With black mould health issues being a top concern for landlords and tenants alike, proactive measures are essential. At Resisure, we provide landlords and housing providers with an easy-to-install, wireless smart device that monitors humidity, temperature, and mould levels in real-time. Our platform allows landlords to track mould risks, understand their position on the Resisure Mould Index, and take preventative action before mould impacts tenant health or property integrity.
With Resisure, you can rest assured that you are protecting your tenants from black mould health issues while safeguarding your property’s value and integrity. Contact us today to learn more about how our mould detection technology can help you comply with Awaab’s Law and create healthier living environments. Let Resisure be your partner in preventing the dangers of black mould in rental properties.