Free event for Fenland landlords: Expert advice on Awaab's Law, tackling damp and mould and retrofitting

Hosted by the Cambridgeshire Private Sector Housing Group, which represents councils across the county, the countywide 'Dealing with Damp and Mould' forum will take place on:

• Monday, 13^th January 2025
• 1pm to 5pm
• The Maltings, Ship Lane, Ely, CB7 4BB

The event is open to both private and social landlords and will offer expert guidance to help landlords meet legal responsibilities while improving the safety and wellbeing of tenants.

The afternoon will see keynote presentations from:

• Nadhia Khan, Executive Director of Customer and Community, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing: Nadhia will share insights into her organisation's experience of dealing with significant failings in handling complaints related to damp and mould, providing a valuable perspective on lessons learned.
• Ian Sanders, Principal Environmental Health Practitioner, Hull City Council: Ian has a wealth of experience in all aspects of damp and mould and acted as an advisor and contributor to the recent government's statutory guidance.
• Steph Salmon, Retrofit Project Manager, Cambridge City Council: Steph will present a range of retrofitting options available to landlords, focusing on improving energy efficiency and tackling the root causes of damp.

Awaab's Law was introduced last year as part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023. It followed the tragic death of a toddler who died in December 2020 due to prolonged exposure to mould in the social home his family rented from Rochdale Boroughwide Housing.

The law requires social landlords to fix hazards that pose a danger to tenants' health with a strict, legal time limit. But with its extension to the private rented sector expected under the Renters' Rights Bill, the forum provides a vital opportunity for landlords to stay informed, network with industry experts, and ensure compliance with the new regulations.

There will be an opportunity for Q&As after each keynote presentation and the chance to network with other landlords and housing professionals. Refreshments will also be available.

Cllr Sam Hoy, Fenland District Council's Portfolio for Housing, said: "Landlords play a vital role in providing safe and comfortable homes for our residents. This forum is a fantastic opportunity to get ahead of upcoming legal changes, gain practical advice on managing damp and mould, and learn how to make your properties more energy efficient. By working together, we can ensure high-quality housing standards for everyone in our community."

Places at the event are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

To register: Email ProjectResidential@cambridge.gov.uk before 5pm on Thursday 9^th January 2025.

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December 2024