Housing Secretary Steve Reed writes to mayors urging local councils to use new enforcement powers to tackle unsafe private housing, focusing on dangerous damp and mould. The correspondence comes as the government moves to strengthen action against landlords described as “rogue,” with councils able to apply tougher measures and issue large fines when homes are found to pose health risks. The push is aimed at improving conditions in rented properties where damp and mould can indicate broader maintenance failures and can affect tenants’ health. The outlets reporting the development present it as a coordinated local-government effort: councils are being encouraged to actively investigate reports, identify non-compliance, and use the expanded toolkit to deter repeat problems. The government’s message emphasises that enforcement is intended to address substandard housing conditions and hold landlords accountable when properties are unsafe. The exact scope and implementation details are tied to the new powers referenced in the announcement, with councils responsible for taking action in their areas.