Glasgow flat branded ‘ severe’ health hazard
A NEW report into damp and mould in a man’s home has branded it a “severe” health hazard.
Alex Gordon, 68, who suffers from severe respiratory illness, has repeatedly requested a move from his home in the south of Glasgow.
He has been reporting the issue for more than 12 years and previous work has not removed the mould.
The pensioner, who lives with his wife, who also suffers ill health, has a mould allergy, has been diagnosed with aspergillosis and has been in hospital several times as a result.
An inspection by an environmental expert has said the condition is “highly likely” to be as a result of his exposure to the mould.
Mr Gordon’s landlord, Wheatley Homes Glasgow, said he has “highest priority” for a new home.
The inspection by Kristine Reilly- Blake, a certified indoor air quality environmentalist, found 15 types of mould, including aspergillus.
In her report, she stated: “Aspergillus was found to be at severely high levels in both samples taken to the bathroom and the bedroom.
“Swab was not taken to the kitchen area, although severe mould growth was identified to the window and sealant, also to behind the kitchen unit underneath the sink.”
The report said Mr Gordon’s
medical condition shows “evidence of colonisation by aspergillus, due to repeated and continuous exposure to fungal spores”.
Ms Reilly- Blake said aspergillus is a “common feature found in patients who have chronic fungal colonisation”.
She added: “It is highly likely that his repeated upper airways surgery and disease is related to ongoing mould exposure.”
Her report concluded: “This building is suffering the effects of historical and current water damage that has not been correctly identified or remedied to prevent the buildup of moisture, dampness and mould.
“The building in its current condition is a severe hazard to human health and does not comply with Scottish standards. It can be deemed not fit for human habitation.”
Wheatley Homes Glasgow said it has tried to gain access to the property to carry out repairs but Mr Gordon said the
work it has done previously has not been effective and he doesn’t want further repairs.
Instead, he wants a move to another home that is free of damp and mould.
Mr Gordon added: “Doctors have said I should be rehoused.”
A Wheatley Homes Glasgow spokesperson said: “We visited Mr Gordon in January to carry out an inspection and to fit air quality testing equipment. He then asked for this equipment to be removed.
“We’ve repeatedly tried since then to carry out the repairs we identified during our inspection, but he has refused access each time.
“Unfortunately, we’ve had no choice but to start legal action to allow us access.
“Mr Gordon has requested a move to a top- floor flat in Mansewood or Eastwood, or a new- build home in the south of the city. At this time, we don’t have any empty top- floor flats in these areas or new builds due for completion in the south. The family continue to have our highest priority for rehousing. We’re doing everything we can to help them find a home which meets their needs.”
Mr Gordon is being assisted by the Scottish Tenants Organisation ( STO).
Sean Clerkin, STO campaign co- ordinator, said: “We are calling on Wheatley to offer this man a new home in the area.
“There are new- build homes and one should be set aside for Mr Gordon and his family.”