A family residing in East London is urgently requesting their local council to reconsider their impending eviction due to health complications stemming from damp and mould that have hindered their ability to keep up with rent payments.
Shauni-Leigh Tyson, along with her four children and partner Adam, is at risk of being forced out of their home in Plaistow on January 23, despite having set up a repayment arrangement with Newham council.
Ms. Tyson reported that the mould has had negative repercussions on the family’s health, adversely affecting Adam’s work capabilities and resulting in one of her children needing steroids, antihistamines, and a pump, as indicated by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The council has stated that they are collaborating with the family to achieve a “fair resolution” regarding the outstanding rent.
Ms. Tyson has lived in the property since 2014 and has noted that moisture and mould issues began to arise shortly after moving in.
The London Renters’ Union, which is advocating for the family’s situation, explained that the mould has impaired Adam’s ability to perform his manual job, and complications with other benefits have contributed to the family’s rent payment challenges.
The organization also pointed out that the family lodged multiple complaints about the damp and mould, but remedial action was not taken until September.
In response, the council claimed that repairs were conducted “promptly” whenever they gained access to the property.
Ms. Tyson revealed that she has had to discard numerous belongings due to the damp problem, stating, “I’ve had to dispose of two sofas, bedding, books, bags — practically everything associated with the home has had to go. I’m talking about curtains, a significant amount of clothing, mattresses, and bed linens.”
According to the London Renters’ Union, the family established a repayment plan with the council after receiving an eviction notice in November, yet the looming threat of eviction persists.
The council reassured that eviction would not occur if a “fair solution” is reached and if the family continues to comply with the rental agreement terms.
