Systems thinking and tackling damp and mold in social housing
Simon Jones
Consultancy | Podcast | Speaker | Unlocking better ventilation and air quality. AMIEnvSc, AMIAQM
Damp and mold in social housing is a complex issue that requires a systems thinking approach to effectively combat.
It is a way of understanding the interrelationships and interconnectedness between different parts of a system, and how changes in one part can impact the whole.
In the context of social housing and damp and mold, systems thinking can help stakeholders identify the problem's root causes and develop holistic, long-term solutions.
This involves looking beyond the surface-level symptoms of damp and mold and examining the factors that contribute to their development, such as poor ventilation, building materials, or tenant behavior.
By understanding the underlying causes, stakeholders can develop targeted solutions that address the root of the problem, rather than simply treating the symptoms.
Recognition of the interrelationships between different parts of the system is so important and in my experience often missed because of the often siloed nature of the industry.
For example, damp and mold can be caused by poor ventilation specification, which in turn can be exacerbated by a lack of maintenance or tenant behavior. By understanding these interrelationships, stakeholders can develop solutions that consider the whole system and its interconnected parts, rather than just one isolated issue. And in turn communicate more effectively between stakeholders.
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It encourages stakeholders to take a long-term, sustainable approach to combating damp and mold in social housing. Rather than implementing quick fixes or temporary solutions, systems thinking encourages stakeholders to consider the long-term impact of their decisions and actions on the system as a whole.
This means developing solutions that are sustainable and effective in the long run, rather than just addressing the immediate symptoms of the issue.
One example of how systems thinking can be applied to combating damp and mold in social housing is through the development of a collaborative, cross-functional team. This team could include building managers, maintenance personnel, public health experts, and residents, among others. By bringing together different perspectives and expertise, the team can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the issue and identify solutions that consider the whole system.
Additionally, I would encourage stakeholders to use data and evidence to inform their decision-making and problem-solving. This means collecting data on the prevalence and severity of damp and mold in social housing units, as well as analyzing factors that contribute to their development. By using data to inform their decisions, stakeholders can develop targeted, evidence-based solutions that address the root causes of the problem.
Finally, it encourages stakeholders to take a proactive approach to combating damp and mold. This means identifying potential issues before they become problems and developing proactive solutions to address them.
For example, stakeholders could develop a preventative maintenance plan that includes regular inspections of ventilation systems, building materials, and other factors, that contribute to the development of damp and mold, based on data and real time information.
Systems thinking is a valuable tool for combating damp and mold in social housing. By encouraging stakeholders to identify the underlying causes of the issue, recognize the interrelationships between different parts of the system, take a long-term, sustainable approach to problem-solving, and use data and evidence to inform their decisions, systems thinking can help stakeholders to develop comprehensive, effective solutions to this complex issue. By working collaboratively and proactively, stakeholders can create safe, healthy social housing for all residents.
From our experience reliable automated ventilation controls in kitchens and bathrooms can help massively with mould and damp problems...
Business Executive with extensive C-suite and Non-Executive experience.
1 年Well said Simon Jones in my experience far too often the blame is placed on tenants whilst providers spend their time thinking systemically about how to increase rents, service charges, and Executive and Non-Executive salaries! The RP sector needs a shake-up!
MD of propertymot.uk. Helping Housing Associations, Landlords, Housing Associations and Homeowners tackle property health under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act.
1 年I couldn't agree more Simon. There are many skilled persons across a range of industry sectors that together, could deliver a unique framework for dealing with this prevailing problem - for the long term. In the absence of synergy, each case is generally managed in a manner that serves to implicate the issue has been resolved. Experience has told us otherwise. A stakeholder strategy with defined approaches for investigating a root cause is essential if we are to follow this process with SMART Knowledge aimed at all interested parties concluding with cost-effective solutions and/or recognisable advice for tenants and landlords. The same approach could also be a platform for certifying structural performance both currently and post any retrofits. In addition, the decarbonisation journey is likely to impact the current air permeance of structures that, in the absence of recognising the building behaviour and existing atmospheric management protocols, could result in adverse outcomes. The UK has some of the oldest dwellings in Europe with a host pf periods, styles, construction methods and geographical locations such that, a uniform approach for establishing baseline information will assist the desired long-term solution.
Saxonking Engineering Research
1 年Keeping the RH down can make a substantial difference. Cooking, bathing, washing and even breathing releases water vapour into the air. Using a dehumidifier can improve matters considerably rather than keeping windows open and losing heat especially in the winter.