News

Lead Trainer Graham Keedle Interviewed for Dissertation

Dewpoint Professional is proud to support academic research on one of the UK’s most pressing housing issues: damp and mould. As part of her MSc dissertation on “Exploring the Issues Affecting Damp and Mould in England’s Homes, Now and in the Future,” Kelly-Kane Lindsay, a University of the West student and housing association professional, interviewed Graham Keeble MSc. AssocRICS. MICWCI., at Dewpoint Professional. Kelly’s research, aimed at addressing the causes and long-term impacts of damp and mould in residential properties, draws on diverse perspectives from housing professionals, private landlords, educators, qualified building surveyors, and building defect investigators.

Through candid discussions with Kelly, Mr. Keeble provided expert insights into the complex factors contributing to damp and mould in homes, as well as potential solutions to mitigate these risks for future generations. “Graham’s openness on the topic is fantastic and a breath of fresh, mould-free air,” noted Kelly, who also highlighted the need for industry stakeholders to approach the subject with open minds to push forward effective, sustainable solutions.

Kelly’s research explores both the regulatory challenges and on-the-ground realities faced by housing professionals, uncovering areas where regulations and practical considerations may diverge. While some participants felt that innovation and openness can sometimes appear contrary to current regulations, Graham’s expertise brought clarity to the many pathways toward safer, healthier living environments in England.

With a commitment to enhancing knowledge and skills across the industry, Dewpoint Professional remains dedicated to supporting research and education in housing quality and environmental health. By collaborating with emerging researchers like Kelly-Kane Lindsay, Dewpoint Professional reinforces its mission to elevate industry standards and contribute to the well-being of residents across the UK.

Graham Keeble Dewpoint Course Trainer.

Lead Trainer carries out Consultancy work at New Build Housing Association Properties

Recently, Graham Keeble was asked to carry out a comprehensive inspection for a housing association developer on a partially constructed block of four flats in Cornwall. The investigation addressed significant mould growth discovered during construction.

The inspection revealed that the building had advanced to installation phases—plasterboard, MDF door linings, and skirting—without proper moisture control measures within the structure. These materials, which readily absorb atmospheric moisture, had become vulnerable to mould development due to lack of mitigation.

The inspection report recommended the careful removal of plasterboard, door linings, and skirting to treat exposed block walls with antimicrobial solutions, followed by air treatment and the reinstallation of internal finishes. This thorough remediation allowed the Housing Association to confidently accept and let the property, knowing that the mould levels were brought to safe and acceptable standards for tenants.

Dewpoint Lead Trainer asked to Speak at Women in Residentail Property Event

In an insightful online seminar hosted for women professionals in the legal property conveyancing sector, Graham Keeble discussed a critical and timely issue affecting the industry: mould growth in new build properties. This challenge is increasingly impacting purchasers and occupiers, often surfacing even before contracts are signed.

The seminar highlighted the urgent need for more rigorous control measures during the construction phase to manage moisture content effectively within new builds before installation and closing-up stages. Such proactive measures are essential in reducing the risk of mould and ensuring healthier living environments.

A key outcome of the discussion was the consideration of including legal caveats in contractual documents, potentially requiring proof of moisture levels before the sale process concludes. This approach could provide purchasers with added reassurance and help address a growing concern in the sector.

Dewpoint courses are Registered for CPD Points

Dewpoint Professionals is thrilled to announce that it is now registered to offer Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, marking a significant milestone in providing enhanced professional development opportunities for its members. CPD points are an essential component for individuals seeking to advance their careers and maintain high standards of competence in their respective fields.

CPD points serve as a measure of an individual’s commitment to ongoing learning and development within their profession. By participating in CPD activities, professionals can stay abreast of industry trends, regulations, and best practices, ultimately enhancing their skills and knowledge base.

“We are excited to offer CPD points to our members, as it underscores our commitment to supporting their professional growth and success,” said Dawn Brumpton, Course Administrator. “In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, continuous learning is paramount. By earning CPD points through our programs and activities, professionals can demonstrate their dedication to staying current in their field and maintaining the highest standards of expertise.”

For more information about Dewpoint Professional courses please contact us on info@dewpointprofessional.co.uk

Awaab’s Law set’s Standards for Mould Remediation

There has never been more urgency in getting trained in Mould Remediation then now. Following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020 due to mould exposure at his Rochdale home, campaigners are pushing for reforms in housing regulations. Known as “Awaab’s Law,” proposed changes would establish new timeframes for repairs in unsafe homes. Housing Secretary Michael Gove expressed the need for “strong, robust action” to prevent similar tragedies, emphasizing the proposed legal amendments. Landlords in England would be required to investigate issues within two weeks and commence repairs within an additional seven days. Under the suggested reforms, emergency repairs must be conducted within 24 hours, and landlords failing to meet deadlines may face court action and compensation claims from tenants. The proposals are currently in the consultation phase, with an emphasis on addressing health and safety risks posed by damp and mould in homes across the country. Landlords are expected to maintain clear records demonstrating compliance with the specified time limits.

The message is clear don’t delay, get your staff trained to be able to provide the requirements set down by law.

Water Damage Restoration Course Returns

The City & Guilds Accredited course in Water Damage Restoration is now available to book again.

The Dewpoint Professional Water Damage Restoration Courses are taught over one to three days at the purpose built ‘Flood Simulation Facility’ and includes both classroom and practical hands-on tuition. Delegates will have the opportunity to put their new learned knowledge to use within the facility during the course gaining invaluable experience.

Over 1000 attendees have already benefited form the course which is aimed a those persons who have the responsibility for the mitigation, remediation and restoration of water damaged buildings and contents by providing assistance and information to individual practitioners and organisations that work in the damage management industry to maintain their professional competence.

With currently flooding throughout the UK the need for trained professionals in every industry is critical.

To book a place on our next course on the 28th Feb – 1st March contact us on info@dewpointprofessional.co.uk or call us on 01427 782 944.

Environment Urge Households to Prepare

Communities are being strongly advised to ready themselves for potential winter floods, with the Environment Agency emphasising the consequences of neglecting this perilous situation.

Amidst a rise in extreme weather events attributed to the climate emergency, the Environment Agency is launching a public awareness initiative called “Flood Action Week.” The purpose is to motivate residents living in flood-prone areas to take proactive measures now to safeguard their homes, belongings, and loved ones.

In the current year, the UK witnessed its highest-ever recorded temperatures, and the Met Office confirmed that England experienced its joint-hottest summer on record. Despite this, much of the country is still grappling with drought conditions.

Looking forward to the upcoming winter, the Met Office predicts an increased likelihood of wet and stormy weather as the season progresses. It’s crucial to recognise that unexpected floods can occur at any time, and communities are being cautioned not to become complacent due to the dry weather experienced during the summer.

The Environment Agency urge households to take these simple steps:

This year’s Flood Action Week comes as the Environment Agency has now expanded its flood warning service to reach almost 50,000 new properties at risk of flooding and hopes to exceed its target to provide new warning capability for 62,000 properties at risk of flooding by this winter. It brings the number of properties registered with the service to 1.6 million.

With over 250 mobile pumps and 5,000 trained staff across the country, the Environment Agency is ready to take action wherever it is needed this winter. The construction and repair of flood defences has also continued throughout the year as part of the record £5.2 billion government investment in flood and coastal defences.

Storm Babet Weather Warning in place across the UK

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Andy Page, said:

This is not usual autumn weather. This is an exceptional event, and we are likely to continue to see significant impacts with the potential for further flooding and damage to properties. There are numerous National Severe Weather Warnings in place for both rain and wind over the coming days.

Today parts of eastern Scotland could see a further 20-30 mm of rain, but the east-facing high ground from southeast Scotland to the Cheviots, south to the Peak District may see as much as 80 to 120 mm of rain locally. Strong easterly winds may exacerbate the impacts of the heavy rain.

We have issued a second red warning covering parts of Angus and Aberdeenshire for Saturday with 70-100 mm rain possible. This has the potential to cause further impacts in this already hard-hit area.

Katharine Smith, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said:

Persistent and heavy rain brought by a combination of Storm Babet and following weather systems means significant inland flooding is likely across parts of the north of England, and possible across parts of the Midlands and East of England, from Friday through to Saturday.

Environment Agency teams are out on the ground to clear blockages and operate flood defences to minimise the impact of flooding in the areas at risk. We also advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and urge people not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.

People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation at https://www.gov.uk/check-if-youre-at-risk-of-flooding and follow @EnvAgency on X, formerly known as Twitter, for the latest flood updates.

Dewpont Professinal Lead Trainer attends Indoor Air Quality Conference

Attended by Dewpoint Professional’s Lead Trainer, Graham Keeble, this conference—hosted at the Norwegian Ambassador’s residence in central London—centered on the critical need for effective indoor air quality management in social housing. Attendees, including key leaders from both social housing organisations and innovative technology firms, explored how advanced technologies can enhance the health and well-being of residents.

Discussions emphasized the role of cutting-edge solutions like 3-D modeling and AI-driven systems to manage moisture content, carbon monoxide, CO2, and other emissions. These technologies provide centralized and remote control over environmental factors, ensuring healthier living conditions by reducing the risks associated with moisture and mould growth.

This event spotlighted the potential of AI and automation to make substantial improvements in social housing environments, marking an exciting step forward for the sector.

Michael Gove MP sets out Awaab’s Law

On the 11th September Michael Gove MP sent a letter to all social housing providers outlining his proposal for Awaab’s Law. Within the letter the Rt Hon MP set out the following guidance:

Introduce ‘Awaab’s Law’ to set out new requirements for landlords to address hazards such as damp and mould in social homes. Following a consultation, we will bring these into force as soon as Parliamentary time allows;
Provide new powers for the Housing Ombudsman and change the law so that social housing
Residents can complain directly to the Ombudsman;
Review the Decent Homes Standard and apply it to private rented homes;
Introduce new professionalisation standards that will require senior housing staff to hold, or work towards, recognised housing management qualifications; and
Introduce the new Private Rented Property Portal and give all private tenants access to an Ombudsman if their landlord fails to resolve legitimate complaints.

From the guidance the message is very clear get trained to deal with damp and mould in housing. Dewpoint Professional is the only training organisation in the UK that runs City & Guilds Accredited courses in Mould Remediation and Water Damage Restoration. For more detail and to book a course email info@dewpointprofessional.co.uk.

Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communitues