Working Together for Safer, Healthier Homes in Wales

A Mini-Pulse from TPAS Cymru

The tragic death of Awaab Ishak — a two-year-old who died from exposure to mould in his social housing — has deeply affected us all. It’s a powerful and painful reminder of why safe, healthy homes must be a basic right for everyone.

Although this tragedy happened in England, it’s sparked important conversations here in Wales. The Welsh Government is now consulting on new guidance to strengthen the Welsh Housing Quality Standard (WHQS), making it clear how social landlords should respond to serious hazards like damp, mould, and other health risks.

What’s being proposed?

The guidance would require social landlords in Wales to:

• Act quickly and effectively when a hazard is reported
• Publish their response times, so tenants know what to expect
• Report on performance as part of their WHQS responsibilities

It’s all about improving transparency, accountability, and trust.

Why does it matter?

A group of housing and health experts in Wales reviewed what we can learn from recent events. They agreed: we need to act sooner, take tenant concerns seriously, and make sure homes are safe and healthy for everyone — from older people and families to those with health conditions or on low incomes.

This isn’t just about damp and mould. It includes 29 types of hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System — like cold, poor ventilation, and structural issues.

For tenants, these changes could mean healthier homes, consistent standards and faster, more transparent responses from landlords.

How can you have your say?

The Welsh Government is asking for feedback on this proposal, and your voice matters. The responses they receive during this consultation will shape the final version of the new guidance in WHQS.

At TPAS Cymru, we support this work to strengthen housing standards and are pleased to share the tenant voice on the proposed changes.  We believe every tenant deserves a home that is safe, secure and supports their health and wellbeing — and we’ll continue to work with tenants to make that vision a reality.

Therefore, we are running a short Mini-Pulse to gather your views on this important topic.

Make your voice heard in our Mini-Pulse here: https://tpascymru.questionpro.eu/saferhomes

 

If you have any questions about our work in this area, please email [email protected]