A South London family has endured what they describe as a "two-year nightmare" living in a council flat plagued by severe mould, leaks, and even mushrooms growing from their walls.
The shocking conditions have taken a serious toll on their health, particularly affecting their young daughter who has developed breathing difficulties requiring hospital treatment.
A Home Overrun by Fungi
Mum-of-two Kayleigh De Sousa shared disturbing images showing the extent of the damage in their Lewisham property. "We've had mushrooms growing out of the walls, the ceiling's been leaking, and there's mould everywhere," she explained.
The family first reported the issues to Lewisham Council in 2022, but despite multiple complaints and temporary fixes, the problems have persisted and worsened over time.
Health Impacts on Young Children
The damp environment has been particularly harmful to their youngest child. "My daughter has been struggling to breathe properly and has had to go to hospital because of the conditions," De Sousa revealed.
Medical professionals have confirmed the mould could be contributing to the child's respiratory issues, adding to the family's distress and urgency for a permanent solution.
Council Response and Temporary Measures
While Lewisham Council has conducted some repairs and offered temporary accommodation, the family claims the underlying issues remain unresolved. "They've patched things up temporarily, but the mould keeps coming back," De Sousa stated.
The council has acknowledged the situation and says they're working to address the problems, but the family feels their concerns haven't been taken seriously enough.
A Growing Problem in Social Housing
This case highlights broader issues affecting social housing tenants across London. Many families face similar battles with damp and mould in their properties, often waiting months or years for proper repairs.
The De Sousa family's experience serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved housing standards and more responsive maintenance services in council properties.
