A man in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, is sounding the alarm over black mould in his home, claiming it has led to a life-threatening fungal infection and left him facing an agonizing choice between risking his life or becoming homeless.
Matthew Langsford, who has lived in a social housing flat since 2010, began noticing black mould in the property in 2013. Despite notifying his landlord, he says the issue was merely covered up rather than properly addressed. Now, Langsford, 32, has been diagnosed with invasive aspergillosis, a dangerous condition in which mould spreads from the lungs to the bloodstream, causing severe health complications.
Langsford describes the experience as “hell on earth,” saying that his health has deteriorated to the point where he struggles to even walk to the local shop. “In 2013, I first noticed the mould, and although work was carried out, it never fully disappeared. Over the years, I’ve suffered from continuous health issues, including intestinal problems and skin conditions. Now, doctors say it’s all linked to mould exposure,” he shared.
Estimates suggest that up to 75% of Langsford’s flat is covered in mould, affecting areas like door frames, plasterboard, and bedroom walls. In 2023, after a leak caused further damage, social housing provider Stonewater replaced the bathroom and kitchen and installed new flooring. Langsford was temporarily relocated, but upon returning, his condition worsened drastically. Just two weeks later, he collapsed due to pneumonia, which led to a five-day hospital stay and septic shock.
Despite doctors linking his condition to mould exposure, Langsford’s home is still classified as “fit for living” by the local council. This designation leaves him with a grim choice: stay in his deteriorating flat or risk being considered “intentionally homeless” by leaving. Currently, he alternates between staying with friends and returning to the flat to care for his cat, Gizmo.
“The local authority says my home is suitable, so they won’t re-house me. If I leave, I’ll be considered intentionally homeless,” Langsford said, expressing frustration over the system. “I’m left with two options: die, or be homeless.”
Langsford has harshly criticized the social housing system, which he believes fails to protect the most vulnerable. “This situation has ruined my life physically, mentally, and financially,” he said. “It’s unforgivable.”
Stonewater responded, emphasizing their efforts to resolve the mould problem, noting that they replaced his bathroom and kitchen and recently installed new flooring. A spokesperson for the company acknowledged the presence of some remaining mould but claimed that a recent survey did not find any structural defects in the property. The survey revealed mould in the bathroom, on the shower curtain, and in the washing machine powder drawer, as well as a malfunctioning extractor fan. Stonewater has stated that Langsford is pursuing legal claims for housing disrepair and personal injury.
A spokesperson for Warwick District Council confirmed that they are working with Stonewater to investigate the serious concerns raised by Langsford.
Meanwhile, Langsford has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for medical expenses and home repairs, as his battle with both his health and housing continues.
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