EXCLUSIVESadiq Khan vows to install mould detectors in rented properties across London amid fears over health risks
Sadiq Khan today pledged to install mould detectors in rented properties across London amid fears over health risks.
In his latest pitch to voters ahead of crucial elections next Thursday, the mayor insisted the plan would help 'hold landlords to account'.
Mr Khan is backing a £120,000 pilot project that would see an initial 200 damp and mould sensors in homes.
He said that if the trials are successful thousands more would be installed in the capital - amid concerns that nationally one in seven families with children in rental properties live with damp.
The issue was brought to the fore by the tragic death of toddler Awaab Ishaak following exposure to mould in his home in Rochdale.
Sadiq Khan today pledged to install mould detectors in rented properties across London amid fears over health risks
The issue was brought to the fore by the tragic death of toddler Awaab Ishaak following exposure to mould in his home in Rochdale
Mr Khan said: 'No-one should have to live in a damp or mouldy home.
'I'm determined to do everything in my power in London to end this national scandal and to use the power of cutting-edge technology.
'If this pilot is successful I want to roll out thousands of mould sensors all across London, to ensure tenants can hold their landlords to account.'
The 200 sensors will be installed in rental homes in 18 boroughs, before being expanded more widely if successful.
They collect temperature and humidity data, using smart algorithms to determine risks.
Council officers will be automatically alerted to properties where there could be problems.
The mayor's aides say the sensors would 'empower' tenants with evidence so they can argue for landlords to make improvements.
Awaab Ishak died in 2020 shortly after his second birthday as a result of a severe respiratory conditions.
The cost-of-living crisis is feared to have made Britain's 'mould epidemic' worse, with figures claiming 4.7million private renters battled fungal growth after choosing to turn off the heat to save cash.
A file picture of housing in London . Mr Khan is backing a £120,000 pilot project that would see an initial 200 damp and mould sensors in homes
