Painting & Maintenance have been supporting Onward Homes by identifying and treating damp and mould across their housing portfolio. Onward is one of the largest registered providers of social housing based solely in the North West, with 35,000 homes across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire.
After securing our first opportunity in December 2023, we have become the sole contractor working on a negotiated basis, delivering over £1 million of works in less than a year. The works include identifying the root cause of damp and mould, treating the issue, and carrying out repairs of up to £500 per property. Additional works include replacing doors, door frames and skirting boards, plastering, and roof works such as gutter cleaning, roof tile replacement and new fascias and soffits. We also improve ventilation by replacing fans and extractors and installing PIV (positive input ventilation) systems.
Challenges
Working in live environments, education and empathy are at the forefront of our approach. Tackling damp and mould is about more than fixing buildings; it’s about improving lives. By putting residents at the heart of what we do, we help people keep their homes healthier for themselves and their children.
Stakeholder Engagement
We communicate with Onward daily and record all progress on a dedicated Seddon-designed app. Each completed job has its own Jotform, which stakeholders can view at any time for updates.
We also held a team collaboration day with Onward at the Marriott Worsley to review current practices and procedures. The day gave both teams the chance to talk openly and honestly, which strengthened the relationship and led to shared ideas.
Material Specification
When treating damp and mould, using the right product is key to stopping it coming back. Onward Homes selected RLT BACTDET 05 by Bactdet & Halophane for use across their homes. It kills the mould, stops it spreading to other areas and cleans the surfaces.
Social Value
Through this scheme, the team donated £2,000 worth of painting supplies to The Avenues and Hollins Community Centre in Oldham. The centre provides parent and toddler groups, English classes, arts and crafts, and school holiday activities. The team also gave 160 hours of volunteering to help revitalise the centre.
Outcomes & Benefits
The scheme is improving the quality and standard of Onward’s homes, creating healthier living spaces for residents. Our approach has made us Onward’s sole contractor for damp and mould works, a relationship we continue to strengthen.