Paint solutions to combat mould in social housing

Local authorities and social housing providers have been under the spotlight recently in the wake of the inquest into the death of Awaab Ishak, who died from a respiratory condition caused by mould in the housing association flat where he lived. The Housing Secretary has written to all social housing providers, stating that they should be carrying out assessments of damp and mould in their housing stock and taking action to deal with the issue.

What causes mould?

If mould is not caused by external sources, such as damp, then it is often caused by internal condensation, which is a problem where properties are uninhabited for any length of time or are poorly ventilated. Common areas of homes affected are damp, wet or void spaces, such as bathrooms, kitchens or cold walls.

Although improving airflow is the best way to prevent a build-up of condensation, particularly in winter and in a cost of living crisis, this can prove difficult for tenants to achieve. Left untreated, mould will grow and stain large areas on the walls and ceilings of the home, potentially causing health issues for tenants.

Mould Inhibiting Paint

All suppliers on the YPO Decorative Paints and Sundries framework have specialist trade ranges, which include mould-inhibiting paint. Whilst these paints are more expensive than standard trade paints, they could prove to be a cost-saving solution in the longer term, due to them containing a special fungicide that inhibits the growth of fungi and mould. Some paint brands will also tolerate regular cleaning with soapy water to remove any mould that does begin to grow without damaging the finish.

Their use could result in fewer inspections and remedial actions needing to be taken across the property portfolio, saving resources. They are available in matt, and eggshell finishes to suit your aesthetic. Brands available include: Crown Trade Clean Extreme Mould Inhibiting Scrubbable Matt/Acrylic Eggshell, Johnstones Trade Stopmould, and Dulux Trade Mouldshield.

The framework

This solution is for the procurement and supply of decorative paints and sundries, decorator centre vouchers and tenant packs and a variety of professional services in relation to decorating. This means that whilst sourcing what you need, the process adheres to legal standards and ensures compliance with your workplace health and safety guidelines (health and safety work act 1974). The framework is broken down into lots that offer an extensive range of internal and external wall paints, sundries and services, including;

• Lot 1 - Decorator Paint

• Lot 2 - Decorator Sundries and Wallpaper

• Lot 3 - Decorator Solutions (Paint/Tenant Packs and Vouchers)

Lot 1 of the framework also allows for the supply of paints that are highly suitable for healthcare, education and other commercial buildings, including antibacterial scrubbable paint, anti-graffiti paint, fire retardant paint and anti-slip paint.

For more information, you can view the full lot breakdown and services of the framework here. Alternatively, contact Louise Hardcastle to discuss your personal procurement needs.