Douglas Council Leader Devon Watson has slammed the state of housing protections after visiting a privately rented flat where a family with children lives with severe mould and leaks.
Mr Watson, who said he first saw issues in the same flat three years ago, said while mushrooms that grew through the hallway floor are gone, major problems persist.
“The ceiling still leaks water, which creates a horrifyingly mould problem that emerges regardless of how frequently the home is aired out and cleaned,” he said.
He said the property was re-occupied without necessary repairs. “This is only one example of a system where tenants have no rights and profit is prioritised over the lives and health of people.”
Calling for change, the Council Leader said: “We need better tenant protections and we need more social housing.”
He added, “We have been fighting for this for years but have been repeatedly let down by a government that is terrified to give people the rights and dignity they need to lead comfortable lives.”