July 30, 2025
4 min read

Introducing PM+ Healthy Homes: Fabric & Environmental Assessment

At PM+, we understand that moisture and environmental factors are often at the heart of serious issues in housing. To help identify and address these problems effectively, we employ a cutting-edge approach by installing sensors in each room and on the exterior of the property.

These sensors gather detailed data, allowing us to create a comprehensive 3D representation of the environment and its effects on the building’s fabric. This approach ensures that we understand not just the symptoms, but the underlying causes of issues such as damp, mould, and condensation.

When Condensation is the Cause, What Happens Next?

Condensation is often one of the most difficult issues to resolve in housing stock, affecting a significant portion of properties. Our service specifically targets the 5-10% of housing stock that is responsible for 80% of the most significant problems, particularly around damp and mould. These properties can sometimes be the most challenging to manage, especially when condensation is the root cause.

To address this, we undertake a two-week data capture process using advanced sensors. These sensors monitor the environment continuously, providing us with accurate and real-time information about temperature, humidity, and other critical factors that influence the building’s condition. This allows us to pinpoint exactly where the issues lie and recommend the most effective solutions.

Furthermore, every property has a performance ‘ceiling’, which is the limit to which it can be effectively managed based on its inherent structure and external conditions. By assessing this, we ensure that any actions taken are both realistic and sustainable, ensuring that we don’t exceed the property’s ability to maintain a healthy living environment.

Did You Know?

There are many factors that can contribute to issues within a property, and it’s important for housing providers to understand the nuances of each individual situation. Here are some key considerations that can impact a building’s condition:

Are the windows being opened regularly? Proper ventilation is crucial in preventing condensation, and tenants may unknowingly be contributing to issues by failing to open windows.
Is the extractor fan actually working? Extractor fans are designed to remove moisture from kitchens and bathrooms, but if they’re not working effectively, humidity can build up and cause damage.
Is there cold bridging? Cold bridging occurs when areas of the property lose heat more quickly than others, leading to condensation and moisture problems.
Are trickle vents doing their job? Trickle vents allow air to circulate within rooms, preventing excess moisture from accumulating. If these aren’t functioning properly, it can contribute to dampness.
Are tenants drying clothes indoors? Drying clothes indoors, especially in poorly ventilated areas, can dramatically increase the moisture content in the air and lead to condensation.
Is cooking or showering causing issues in adjoining rooms? The heat and moisture produced by cooking or showering can travel through walls and ceilings, affecting adjacent rooms.
Is the heating being used consistently? Inconsistent use of heating can cause fluctuations in temperature that encourage moisture build-up and condensation.

Awaab’s Law and Its Potential Repercussions

The implementation of Awaab’s Law brings a sharp focus to housing providers’ responsibilities when it comes to managing damp and mould. The law mandates that housing providers must address damp and mould issues within specific timeframes. Failing to meet these deadlines can have serious consequences, including:

Legal Consequences: If housing providers do not meet the required deadlines, they may face complaints, ombudsman involvement, and legal action. Tenants now have the ability to escalate issues, which could result in legal claims for damages.
Damage to Reputation: Beyond legal ramifications, a failure to address issues in a timely manner can erode tenant and public trust. This, combined with negative media coverage, can severely damage a housing provider’s reputation.
Operational and Financial Strain: Housing providers who fall behind on deadlines may experience a backlog of cases. This not only adds to the pressure of managing emergency works but can also increase costs and operational strain, as staff and resources are stretched thin.
Increased Liability Risks: With delays linked to tenant health issues, housing providers face heightened liability risks, particularly around personal injury claims. Failure to manage damp and mould can lead to significant health risks for tenants, opening the door for legal action and increased insurance premiums.

The Importance of Evidence

The legal and operational risks outlined above highlight the critical importance of evidence in managing housing issues. Housing providers must establish a clear causation for building problems, particularly when it comes to damp and mould.

At PM+, we offer valuable support by providing essential data to assess whether environmental conditions are affecting the property’s fabric. This data can make all the difference in showing whether condensation or other factors are causing damage.

Without this evidence, housing providers risk being seen as negligent, even if they’ve taken all reasonable steps to resolve the issue. As a result, they may face penalties or legal challenges. With our independent, evidence-based approach, we provide factual data that guides decision-making and ensures that housing providers take the right steps to protect both their properties and tenants.

Whether it’s through measuring environmental conditions, detecting issues before they escalate, or providing solid proof of causation, PM+ is dedicated to helping housing providers manage their properties more effectively. With our support, you can ensure that you meet the standards required by law while also maintaining a healthy, safe environment for your tenants.

Proof Over Assumption

Guesswork is no longer enough. With our Fabric and Environmental Assessment, you gain the clarity and evidence you need to make informed decisions. Whether you need to escalate a repair, educate a tenant, or defend your position, accurate, impartial data is your best defence.