Thu, 30 Oct 2025

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 'Poor' insulation that left houses mouldy needs wider investigation, government told

Botched insulation damaged many homes and left a legacy of health problems for residents.
Fishwick and Chilton examples:
* In Fishwick, a council-run scheme in 2012 led to widespread problems with damp and mould due to substandard EWI installation. Residents like Jean Liddle experienced health issues and were left with costly repairs.
* Similar issues arose in Chilton, County Durham, where a 2021 scheme also resulted in damp and mould issues due to allegedly damaged drainage pipes. Government response:
* The government admits that the residents of Fishwick and Chilton have been "let down by poor installation."
* A statement from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero claims that comprehensive reforms will introduce clear lines of accountability, guarantees for fixing problems quickly, and a more accurate picture of failure rates. Industry insiders' concerns:
* Industry experts say that EWI can take up to 10 years before problems appear as damp on homes.
* Fishwick is seen as an object lesson in how not to run an installation project, but similar problems have arisen in later government schemes. Government funding and accountability:
* The article highlights the need for clear lines of accountability and responsibility, with Atif (the son of a Fishwick resident) calling for people to be held accountable.
* Eligible residents can apply for funding to make their homes warmer and cheaper to heat through programs like Barnsley Council's insulation scheme. Key questions:
* How many other schemes have failed due to substandard EWI installation?
* What measures will the government take to ensure that future projects are properly managed and monitored? This report highlights a pressing issue in the UK, where billions of pounds have been spent on insulation programs with little apparent success. The article raises concerns about accountability, government transparency, and the welfare of affected residents.
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