Toddler killed by mould exposure, finds inquest

Awaab Ishak’s death a defining moment for housing sector’

- HOLLY BANCROFT

A two-year-old’s death was caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his home, a coroner has ruled. Awaab Ishak died as a result of a severe respiratory condition in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, in December 2020.

Speaking at his inquest, coroner Joanne Kearsley said: There is little doubt that the tragic death of Awaab Ishak should be a defining moment for the housing sector.”

“How in the UK in 2020 does a two-year-old child die as a result of exposure to mould?” she asked. This is not simply a Rochdale problem or a social housing problem.”

A surveyor described the conditions at Awaab’s home as unfit for human habitation”, the inquest heard. His father, Faisal Abdullah, had previously complained to Rochdale Boroughwide Housing RBH) about the mould in 2017 but was told to paint over it, Rochdale coroner’s court was told.

In June 2020, Mr Abdullah instructed solicitors and initiated a claim over the recurring issue but policy meant any repairs would not be done until an agreement had been reached.

Speaking outside Rochdale coroner’s court yesterday, lawyer Kelly Darlington read a statement on behalf of the family, saying: We cannot tell you how many health professionals we have cried in front of and Rochdale Boroughwide Housing staff we have pleaded to, expressing our concerns at the conditions ourselves and Awaab had been living in.