BLE Sensors for Monitoring Residential Accommodation & Social Housing

The Awaab Ishak Case

In December 2020, two-year-old Awaab Ishak died from a respiratory condition caused by prolonged mould exposure in his family's social housing flat in Rochdale. Despite repeated complaints from his father, the housing association failed to address the mould problem. The coroner's stark question - "How, in the UK in 2020, does a two-year-old child die from mould in his home?" - prompted nationwide action on housing conditions.

Health Impacts

Damp and mould exposure is associated with a 30-50% increase in respiratory problems. Asthma sufferers are twice as likely to live in damp homes. The NHS spends an estimated £1.4 billion annually treating illnesses linked to cold, damp housing. When wider societal costs are included, this figure rises to £15.4 billion.

Research indicates damp and mould may contribute to 10-15% of new childhood asthma cases across Europe. Cold homes are more prone to condensation, creating a cycle where fuel poverty leads to health problems, which in turn increases healthcare costs.

Why the Problem is Growing

• Energy cost crisis: 68% of UK residents have cut back on heating due to rising bills. Of those affected by mould, 56% believe reduced heating has worsened the issue.
• Ageing housing stock: 42,000 social homes failed the Decent Homes Standard in 2023/24. By 2025, nearly 405,000 homes will still be classified as non-decent.
• Increased complaints: Housing association mould complaints have risen 19% since 2012, while local authority housing has improved. The Housing Ombudsman issued 803 compensation orders for mould in 2023 - nearly double the previous year.