URL: https://democracy.middevon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1324

Decision Maker: Head of Housing & Health

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: REASON FOR DECISION: As per Cabinet decision under item 25 on 09 July 2024, Cabinet approved delegated authority for minor amendments to be made to current and new Mid Devon Housing (MDH) Policies by the Head of Housing and Health.   The MDH Damp and Mould Policy 2023 was approved by Council on 1 November 2023 following consideration by Cabinet and Homes Policy Development Group. As such it is a current, adopted MDH Policy.   Minor amendments are required to bring the policy fully in line with the ‘Hazards in Social Housing (Prescribed Requirements) (England) Regulations 2025’ also known as Awaab’s Law, which were laid in Parliament on 25 June 2025.   This decision records the policy amendments to be made as set out below.   Section 2 – Legal Framework and Context ·         Added explicit reference to Awaab’s Law as binding legislation. ·         Commits MDH to compliance with statutory timeframes for hazard response. ·         Reinforces MDH's duty to safeguard tenant health. ·         Explains exclusions and limitations in relation to Awaab’s Law   Section 7 – Investigations and Repairs New clauses outline the legally required response times and context for consistency with Awaab’s law: ·         Emergency hazards must be investigated within 24 hours. ·         Significant hazards must be investigated within 10 days and make safe within 5 working days ·         A written summary must be provided to the tenant(s) within 3 working days. ·         If significant hazards cannot be addressed within five working days, MDH must provide suitable alternative accommodation. This is also the case for emergency hazards that cannot be made safe within the 24 hour timeframe. ·         Where supplementary works are needed to prevent recurrence, these must be completed as soon as reasonably practicable, and within 12 weeks. ·         Applies to significant health hazards such as mould growth, structural leaks, and high indoor humidity. ·         Formalises MDH’s commitment to swift, risk-based action and clear tenant communication.  

Date of Decision: September 17, 2025