Stourbridge Family's Daily Nightmare in Mould-Infested Home
Shocking images reveal the grim reality of a Stourbridge family living in a house overrun with damp and mould, a situation they fear could be life-threatening. Kevin Smith, 39, who suffers from emphysema, and his partner Danielle Hutton, 36, an asthma patient, reside with their three children in a Lyttelton Road property where every room is infested. The couple believes the pervasive mould is exacerbating their health issues, potentially putting their lives at risk.
Health Crisis and Council Intervention
In January, paramedics were called after Danielle experienced severe breathing problems. Alarmed by the conditions, they issued a safeguarding notice to Dudley Council regarding the privately rented home. The family is now hoping to secure a council house following an inspection by housing officers. Kevin Smith expressed the emotional toll, stating, "I can’t work, it’s soul-destroying when you have constant problems but lack the finances to fix them. We’ve had real dark days, considering giving up, but we’re a family and can’t just turn around."
Property Deterioration and Inspection Findings
The house exhibits damp and mould throughout, with three rooms rendered unusable due to severity. Suspected Japanese Knotweed is growing through one door, and an inspection by Dudley Council identified electrical system issues. Additionally, water ingress from a flat roof has caused part of a ground-floor ceiling to collapse. Smith noted, "We run a dehumidifier constantly, emptying it four times a day when full."
Council Response and Political Involvement
Dudley Council inspected the property on March 12 and is preparing a report to determine if it is ‘unfit,’ which could lead to enforcement against the landlord. The council claims to have offered alternative accommodation, but Smith describes it as an unsuitable bed and breakfast option that would classify them as ‘intentionally homeless.’ Norton councillor Tony Creed is urging a faster council response, while Stourbridge MP Cat Eccles has written to the authority highlighting the family’s plight.
Smith added, "They’ve seen the evidence; one photo should suffice. My family feels left in the dark, treated as less than human. The mental struggle of the unknown is unbearable and puts us at further risk." The family continues to endure this hazardous environment as they await a resolution.
