Mould and damp in social housing : Insights from tenant research in Greater Manchester

This paper examines the prevalence, causes and impacts of mould and damp in social housing, drawing on tenant-focused research conducted in Greater Manchester as part of the Social Housing Quality Fund (SHQF) programme. The study combines survey data (582 responses) and in-depth qualitative interviews (n=41) to explore how mould and damp are experienced in the home, and how these conditions affect tenants’ health, wellbeing and daily lives. The findings highlight the pervasive nature of these issues and their complex and interrelated drivers, including structural deficiencies in housing, energy affordability constraints and limitations on tenants’ ability to manage moisture within the home. The research demonstrates significant impacts on both physical and mental health, with particular effects on vulnerable households. It also shows how occupants adapt their behaviours to cope with poor housing conditions, often at personal, social and financial cost. While interventions delivered through the SHQF programme show evidence of improvement in some cases, the findings underline the importance of addressing underlying structural issues alongside occupant practices. The paper concludes by identifying implications for housing providers, emphasising the need for integrated approaches that combine technical interventions with tenant engagement, improved communication and a better understanding of lived experience in managing housing quality. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.