As experts in air purification and disinfection solutions, Biozone Scientific is deeply concerned about Citizens Advice’s alarming findings regarding the state of private rentals in England. Their recent research reveals a shocking reality faced by millions of renters, highlighting the urgent need for better housing conditions and tenant protections.
• Almost half (45%) of private renters in England currently deal with damp, mold, or excessive cold in their homes
• Half (48%) of those affected have lived with these disrepair issues for over a year
• 4.8 million renters are struggling with these conditions, even during warmer months
These numbers paint a stark picture of a generation facing declining living standards in the private rental sector. The situation is particularly dire for low-income families, who are expected to spend a staggering 53% of their income on energy and housing costs this year
Beyond the statistics lies a story of families suffering in silence. Many renters fear speaking up about substandard conditions due to the threat of retaliatory evictions. Over a third (37%) of renters with damp, cold, or mold issues have never complained to their landlords, with 51% citing fear of retaliation as the primary reason
One harrowing account shared by Citizens Advice illustrates the devastating impact on families:
“Whenever the mould flared up on my children’s bedroom walls, their skin would flare up too.” – Hayley, a mother whose family suffered from extensive mold in their rental property
This crisis extends beyond individual homes, affecting entire communities and the economy:
• Financial strain: A third of private renters (equivalent to 3.4 million) have had to borrow money to cover their rent
• Health concerns: Living in damp, cold conditions can exacerbate respiratory issues and other health problems.
• Economic impact: The stress and uncertainty of unstable housing situations can affect work performance and overall well-being.
Biozone Scientific believes that clean, healthy air should be a fundamental right for everyone. While we cannot solve the systemic issues overnight, we can offer immediate solutions to improve indoor air quality:
Air Purification Systems: Our advanced air purifiers can help remove mold spores, allergens, and pollutants from indoor air, providing relief for those suffering from poor ventilation.
UV Disinfection Technology: Our UV-C solutions can effectively eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi that thrive in damp environments, creating a healthier living space.
Education and Awareness: We advocate for increased awareness about the importance of proper ventilation and maintenance in rental properties.
While these solutions can provide temporary relief, we also support Citizens Advice’s call for comprehensive reforms:
• Permanently linking financial support for renters to real rent prices
• Implementing strong legislation to reform the rental sector, including a ban on Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
• Requiring landlords to improve the energy efficiency of their properties
At Biozone Scientific, we’re committed to providing innovative solutions for indoor air quality. However, we recognize that technology alone cannot solve the deep-seated issues in the private rental sector. We urge policymakers to take decisive action to protect renters’ rights and ensure that every home provides a safe, healthy environment for its occupants.
