A man, Hiwa Abdulrahman, and his pregnant wife have faced multiple issues with dampness and mould in their home in Toxteth, Liverpool since June 2023. They claim to have been experiencing antisocial behavior for over a year and felt so unsafe in their flat that they slept in their car for four nights in February 2024. Torus, the housing association managing the flat, said the issues were caused by a blocked external rainwater drain and are working to resolve them, with completion estimated for the next month. The couple wants a permanent rehousing solution as the wife has developed a phobia about living in their current home. They are worried about the health impacts on themselves and their unborn child, as the wife has respiratory symptoms and has been prescribed an inhaler.
Despite reports of dampness and mould recurring after temporary fixes by Torus, they were shocked to find mould building up under the living room carpet and around window frames. Their concerns for their health, especially with a baby on the way, prompted them to engage their GP, who wrote to Torus about their health issues. Their requests for rehousing have been met with the discontinuation of antisocial behavior complaints, with the housing association working with the police to investigate the alleged incidents. Torus emphasized that they take all reports of antisocial behavior seriously and are ensuring that the tenants are supported and informed throughout the process. Merseyside Police confirmed that they had made inquiries into the reports, although insufficient evidence has so far prevented further action.
The pregnant wife expressed her distress and fear, feeling overwhelmed by the stress of her pregnancy combined with the living conditions. She expressed uncertainty about her safety and comfort in the current home, given the ongoing issues with dampness, mould, and antisocial behavior. The couple desires a permanent solution to their housing situation to ensure the health and safety of themselves and their child. Torus assured that they are actively working to resolve the issues and apologized for not being able to address the problems as quickly as the tenants would prefer. They have relocated the couple to temporary accommodation during the completion of works on their current apartment, taking into consideration the wife’s pregnancy and health concerns. Despite these efforts, the couple remains wary of returning due to the ongoing threats of antisocial behavior.
The couple’s experience sheds light on the challenges faced by tenants in dealing with housing issues, particularly when related to health and safety concerns. The inability to address these problems promptly can have serious consequences on the well-being and quality of life of tenants, especially pregnant individuals and families with young children. The persistence of dampness and mould despite repeated interventions shows the complexity of resolving such issues and the need for long-term solutions. The emotional toll of living in fear and discomfort in their own home is a stark reminder of the importance of providing safe and adequate housing for all individuals.
The case also highlights the role of housing associations and local authorities in ensuring the well-being of tenants and addressing concerns related to housing conditions and antisocial behavior. Collaboration between housing providers, tenants, and law enforcement is crucial in addressing and resolving issues of dampness, mould, and antisocial behavior. It is essential for housing associations to prioritize the health and safety of tenants, especially vulnerable individuals and families, by taking swift and effective action to address housing concerns and provide appropriate support. The ongoing communication and support from Torus and Merseyside Police demonstrate a commitment to resolving the issues and ensuring the well-being of the tenants.
In conclusion, the case of Hiwa Abdulrahman and his pregnant wife underscores the challenges faced by tenants living in substandard housing conditions and dealing with antisocial behavior. Their experience highlights the need for timely and effective interventions to address issues of dampness, mould, and antisocial behavior, particularly concerning health and safety concerns. The couple’s desire for a permanent housing solution reflects the importance of providing secure and adequate housing for all individuals, particularly pregnant women and families with young children. The response from Torus and Merseyside Police demonstrates a commitment to resolving the issues and supporting the tenants through the process. Ultimately, the case calls for greater attention to housing issues and the well-being of tenants to ensure safe and healthy living conditions for all.
