HC Deb 10 February 1970 vol 795 cc297-8W
25. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what guidance he is now giving to local authorities about condensation in new houses.

33. Mr. Alldritt

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he will make a statement on the progress of his investigations into the elimination of condensation particularly in local authority housing; and what advice he has offered to local authorities on this matter.

Mr. Loughlin

My Department, and particularly the Building Research Station, has given advice to local authorities in a number of specific cases. This advice will continue to be available and, in addition, a design guide will be published next month. As in past years, lectures and conferences will also be arranged.

Further details are given below: The widespread incidence of condensation in modern dwellings can be attributed to a combination of changes in living habits and building techniques. With an increasing number of housewives out at work, dwellings are often left unoccupied and unheated for most of the day and moisture producing activities such as cooking, clothes washing and drying tend to be concentrated into shorter periods of time and react on the cold interior of the dwelling. Modern methods of building with harder and more durable finishes together with reduced rates of natural ventilation through improved window design and the absence of flues do not allow this excess of moisture to escape, and consequently condensation occurs in the colder parts of dwellings. Studies have shown that careful attention to design and, equally important, some simple precautions on the part of the householder, can do much to reduce the risk of condensation. The Working Party of specialists set up by my predecessor in 1966, advised that straightforward guidance to occupants, builders, designers and housing managers would be the most beneficial way of dealing with the problem. Following this advice a simple householders leaflet has been produced, 3 million of which have been distributed. A film suitable for general audiences is available on free loan from Ministry Headquarters and Regional offices. Numerous conferences have been held and lectures are continuing throughout the country. A building research digest and a technical advisory leaflet have been produced by the Ministry. In addition a technical handbook is about to be published aimed at designers and builders and describing the necessary measures required in the design of buildings to minimise condensation. A second handbook is in the course of preparation dealing with remedial measures for existing dwellings. While not under-estimating the severity and unpleasantness of condensation, it is important to recognise that solutions to the problem are available. In the meantime the Ministry of Public Building and Works will continue to give publicity to the subject and provide technical advice where required. The Working Party is expected to submit a final report in October, 1970, containing recommendations for any further action necessary.