Damp crisis deepens as families endure cold homes for years

Families across the UK are enduring cold and damp homes for an average of five years, according to new research that highlights the devastating impact of fuel poverty and poor housing conditions.

The findings from Cadent show almost two‑thirds (63%) of people living in damp conditions report severe mould, while nearly a third (30%) say their situation has worsened over the past year.

Among those who have lived in such homes for more than two years, 64% report respiratory problems, 62% struggle to wash and dry clothes, and 93% say their financial situation has deteriorated as a result.

The warning comes just weeks after Awaab’s Law took effect, requiring landlords to act swiftly on hazards such as damp and mould in social housing.

The law is named after Awaab Ishak, the two‑year‑old who died in 2020 following prolonged exposure to mould in his home.

The human impact of these conditions is stark. Residents report musty smells (41%), poor sleep quality (33%), and needing to sleep in extra clothing (32%). Nearly a third say their mental health has been harmed.

In response, Cadent is scaling up support for vulnerable households through a new programme designed to tackle the root causes of fuel poverty, damp, and mould.

Warm Wash Centres will be launched across ten of the UK’s most deprived areas, starting in Liverpool, Birmingham, Leicester, Barking and East Ham.

These centres will provide heated spaces, washing and drying facilities, and serve as hubs for energy efficiency advice.

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