Damp and mould crisis in Highland Council homes sparks warning from Ariane Burgess MSP
Highlands and Islands Green MSP Ariane Burgess has called for urgent action to tackle what she describes as a “deeply troubling” rise in damp and mould complaints in Highland Council homes, after figures revealed a 38 per cent increase over the past two years.
Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request showed reports rising from 702 in 2022/23 to 971 in 2024/25 - while the number of cases resolved has dropped from 95 per cent to 85 per cent.
Ms Burgess said the figures highlighted a worsening housing problem that was putting tenants’ health at risk.
“No one should be forced to live in a home that threatens their health,” she said. “Damp and mould are not just maintenance issues - they are serious public health concerns.”
The MSP has successfully campaigned for the inclusion of Awaab’s Law in the Scottish Government’s new Housing Bill. Named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died after prolonged exposure to mould in social housing in England, the law will require landlords to investigate and repair problems like damp and mould within strict time limits.
“I’m proud to have led the campaign to bring Awaab’s Law to Scotland. Its inclusion in the Housing Bill is a major step forward in protecting tenants and ensuring landlords act swiftly when problems arise.”
Ms Burgess said she has been contacted by families across the Highlands - including in Inverness - affected by mould exposure.
“I’ve heard from families whose children have developed serious respiratory problems because of mould in their homes. These stories are heart-breaking and underline the urgent need for stronger enforcement and investment in housing repairs.”
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While welcoming Highland Council’s pledge to improve housing through better insulation and new windows, Ms Burgess said tenants must see real results.
“We need to stop damp before it starts,” she said. “Solar thermal heating is clean, efficient, and well-suited to our climate. It reduces condensation, cuts bills, and keeps homes dry.”
Ms Burgess said she will continue to hold both Highland Council and the Scottish Government to account to ensure “every home in the Highlands is safe, warm, and healthy.”