That’s how Mike Leonard, Visiting Professor at the Centre for Future Homes at Birmingham City University (BCU), has reacted to a report into external wall insultation.
98% of the 23,000 homes that had external wall insulation installed under energy efficiency schemes set up by the previous government have problems that will lead to damp and mould if left unaddressed.
“This means more misery for home occupiers, health put at risk and billions of taxpayers’ money wasted,” said Visiting Professor Mike Leonard.
“The reputational damage to the construction industry is immense.
“Trust and confidence is at an all time low, and in the absence of decisive action to find and fix the root cause, we are condemned to repeat the mistakes of the past.
With up to 29% of homes with internal insultation also in need of repairs, Visiting Professor Leonard is calling for a change in how properties are modernised to meet 21st century standards.
“Platitudes are not acceptable as it’s clear the current system has failed,” he added.
“Modernisation of existing social housing stock is a priority, but it must be delivered to the highest standard.
“We urgently need a comprehensive review of the funding and delivery of these schemes as well as more involvement of local, small businesses who offer high quality solutions and better understanding of customer needs.
For print, online and broadcast interviews with Mike Leonard, please contact Phoebe Greggor on phoebe.greggor@bcu.ac.uk