Damp Legislation to be Updated

  

While legal action continues against a notorious Medway landlord, legislation looks set to be changed which takes into account current scientific knowledge of dangerous mould growth.
The Essex based landlord who owns a vast portfolio of Medway property was originally under investigation for a civil matter involving several of his tenants.
As the investigation progressed, the landlord was eventually charged under criminal law following the death of an elderly tenant.  The death has since been proven to be a result of an accumulative adverse reaction from penicillium growth.

If the anticipated change to The Housing Act 2004 comes into force before March 19th, the implications for this case would most probably mean a custodial sentence for the landlord.

Below: The Housing Health and Safety Rating System Regulaions 2005 HHSRS and The Housing Act 2004 recognises damp, mould and mildew as a statutory nuisance. This could now be upgraded to a Biohazard classification, which would potentially affect many landlords and lettings agencies. 

  

STACHYBOTRYS

Stachybotrys atra, also known as Stachybotrys chartarum (SC), is regarded by the media and implicated by the public health community as a potentially dangerous toxic mold. S. chartarum is known to produce at least 170 different mycotoxins (poisons from a fungus), has been associated with several infant deaths. The mycotoxins produced by this fungus cause rashes, inflammation and hemorrhaging of the lung, and suppression of the immune system.

ASPERGILLUS

Aspergillus fumigatus is responsible for ailments from allergy-type illnesses to life-threatening generalized infections (aspergillosis). This mold grows in both the lungs and sinuses, threatening permanent lung damage (fibrosis) or even death. Aspergillus is of particular concern in hospitals and nursing homes as immuno-compromised individuals are much more susceptible to aspergillosis.

Other aspergillus species (i.e. A. flavus, A. clavatus, and A. parasiticus) also produce mycotoxins. These mycotoxins may be carcinogenic, affect the liver, kidneys, and basic cellular functions. Some of these toxins commonly contaminate grains and are heat stable so they survive cooking.

PENICILLIUM

Some species of Penicillium are known for their beneficial antibiotic effects (i.e. Penicillium chrysogenum). However, a number of species (i.e. P. crustoum, P. expansum, and P. griseofulvum) grow indoors and produce very dangerous mycotoxins. These mycotoxins may be carcinogenic and affect the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, posing a serious threat to human health.

Many more types of mold grow indoors with the potential to produce harmful effects, (e.g. Cladosporium, Fusarium, and Alternataria) especially in those individuals who are immuno-altered or immuno-compromised. Any indication of significant indoor mold growth warrants an investigation- for better health.

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