Tackling Scotland’s hidden threat: Insite Specialist Services and the KPP System in the age of Awaab’s Law

The tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, caused by severe respiratory issues brought on by mould found within his home, sent shockwaves across the UK.

This has led to the imminent implementation of ‘Awaab’s Law’ in England before the end of this year and it is also set to be incorporated into the revised Scottish Housing Bill that has currently completed its second draft.

These significant inclusions within housing legislation across both Scotland and England signify a monumental shift in landlord responsibility, particularly concerning damp and mould, meaning landlords of social and affordable housing will face strict timescales for investigating and, importantly, remedying any identification of mould within their properties.

In this critical new landscape of mould treatment, Insite Specialist Services, a division of the Glasgow-based Insite Group with over seven decades of construction experience, is at the forefront with its innovative Kill Prevent Protect (KPP) System, which offers a safe yet robust solution to the serious problem of identified mould.

For too long, mould has been dismissed as a cosmetic issue that has predominantly been regarded as a tenant’s responsibility. However, the scientific and health care communities have consistently highlighted the serious health implications of mould exposure, ranging from respiratory problems and allergies to more severe conditions like aspergillosis or neurotoxicity, particularly for vulnerable individuals like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

The Scottish House Condition Survey, while showing improvements, still reveals that a significant number of homes grapple with dampness and condensation, which is a precursor to mould growth. The upcoming changes to the Scottish Housing Bill, directly influenced by Awaab’s Law, is expected to mirror the law due to be implemented in England by mandating swift and effective action from social landlords, with penalties for non-compliance.

This makes proactive and preventative solutions like the KPP System extremely beneficial to social and affordable landlords looking to combat any concerns identified within their portfolio of properties. Insite Specialist Services’ KPP System is a multi-faceted approach designed to not only eradicate existing mould but also to establish a lasting barrier against its return, boasting 24/7protection 365 days a year with a guarantee to reduce airborne and surface risks by up to 85%.

The system operates on three core principles:

Kill: The initial phase focuses on the complete elimination of existing mould. Unlike superficial cleaning methods that merely bleach visible mould, the KPP System utilises an advanced non-toxic treatment that penetrates deep into surfaces to eradicate the mould at its root, including spores that are often unseen but continue to pose a health risk. This meticulous approach ensures that the problem is addressed comprehensively without damaging the property & importantly without requiring the decanting of the property at any time.

Prevent: The KPP System sets itself apart with its preventative capabilities. It applies a durable, inert coating that creates a hostile environment for mould growth. This barrier actively helps prevents future recurrence by making it difficult for mould to proliferate on treated surfaces. This proactive measure is vital for long-term health and property protection, especially given the new legal obligations.

Protect: The final element of the KPP System focuses on continuous environmental protection. This often involves the use of advanced air sanification technologies that actively clean the air, neutralising airborne mould, bacteria, viruses, particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Insite Specialist Services has a proven track record in tackling mould issues across various sectors. Their collaboration with the NHS, the Scottish Government, and supporting Housing Associations in Scotland, stands as a testament to the system’s effectiveness. With over 50 successful projects completed for social landlords, Insite Specialist Services has demonstrably improved the living conditions for countless residents, providing healthier and safer homes.

This extensive experience, combined with their commitment to environmentally responsible and non-toxic solutions, positions them as a trusted partner for housing providers navigating these new impending regulatory requirements.

“The proposed introduction of Awaab’s Law is a watershed moment for housing in Scotland,” states Gordon Bruce, founder of Insite Specialist Services. “It now places the onus directly on landlords to ensure safe and healthy living conditions. For too long, mould has been a silent health threat in many homes. Our Kill Prevent Protect System offers a robust, long-term solution that not only addresses existing mould but, crucially, helps prevent its return.

“We believe this proactive approach is not just about compliance, but about fundamentally improving the wellbeing of residents across Scotland and the rest of the UK. Our work with partners like the NHS, Scottish Government, and particularly the extensive projects supporting housing associations in the West of Scotland, showcases our commitment and the system’s proven efficacy in creating healthier living environments for everyone.”

As the Scottish Housing Bill evolves to incorporate the stringent requirements of Awaab’s Law, social & affordable housing providers will need to prioritise effective and sustainable mould remediation strategies.

The KPP System by Insite Specialist Services offers a comprehensive, proven, and responsible solution, empowering landlords to meet their new obligations and, more importantly, to create truly healthy and safe homes for their tenants.