Urgent warning over toxic mould as crisis plagues homes – health symptoms to look out for
ONE in ten Scots homes is plagued by mould — with families living in deprived areas hit hardest.
Politicians claimed the “toxic” spores could be “dangerous” for households who can’t afford to curb the spread by heating their properties.
A report by the Fraser of Allander Institute revealed nine per cent of homes across the country suffered the damp-related problem in 2019, which could lead to “more serious” issues.
It came after an inquest heard Awaab Ishak, two, died from a respiratory condition linked to mould at home.
The Strathclyde Uni think tank’s report, using stats from the Scottish Housing Conditions Survey, found numbers affected by mould fluctuated, peaking at 12 per cent in 2012.
Of those who reported problems in 2019, some 12 per cent lived in the poorest parts of Scotland.
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Only five per cent of homes in affluent areas were affected.
The FAI study said: “There is a clear income gradient with regard to the quality of housing.
“Lower-income households are more likely to live with damp and mould and less likely to be able to keep their home warm in winter.”
Tragic Awaab died in December 2020 in Rochdale, Gtr Manchester, just days after his second birthday.
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A hearing was told his parents repeatedly complained to the local housing association about mould in their home but nothing was done.
Coroner Joanne Kearsley ruled he “died as a result of a severe respiratory condition caused due to prolonged exposure to mould”.
Lib Dem MSP Willie Rennie said: “This tragic case has highlighted the risks posed by untreated mould.
“With many already cutting back on heating this winter, there’s a real risk toxic mould could take hold.
“Landlords and local authorities must respond swiftly to reports of mould and the Scottish Government must do more to insulate homes and ensure that households are not going cold this winter.”
Moulds can produce allergens and, in the worst cases, toxic substances.
Vulnerable people could experience long-term health problems, including shortness of breath.
Scottish Labour MSP Mark Griffin said: “This is shocking and downright dangerous.
"Over winter, people will be stuck in mouldy homes — forced to make impossible choices between heating and eating.
“This scandalous condition of homes in Scotland is making the cost of living crisis more painful.
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“Our response has to include a real plan to get Scottish housing up to a standard people deserve.”
The Scottish Government said it is “committed to tackling disrepair” in housing, adding: “We are working with local authorities and social landlords to ensure people live in warm, dry and safe homes.”
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