A West London family is pleading with their local authority to move them from a flat they say is so cold and damp it threatens their children's lives, a claim supported by medical professionals from a leading hospital.
'We sleep in jackets': Years of cold and damp
Elan Sumon, 38, and Kusum Begum, 42, say they have endured years of poor conditions in their Baron's Court property since moving in January 2019. The couple, who have three children, report persistent problems with mould, draughty windows, leaks, and intense cold.
"We used to sleep with a jacket on," Mr Sumon told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS). "Not only one layer, underneath was a fleece top, then a jumper, then a vest."
Ms Begum described the profound fear the conditions have instilled, revealing that several family members have woken up at night unable to breathe. "We are worried that one day someone's going to pass away," she said. "Now we're afraid... that something tragic happens."
Hospital warns of 'life-threatening' risk
The family's concerns are starkly validated by medical experts. In a letter seen by the LDRS, a consultant from the Royal Brompton Hospital wrote in April 2025 that the housing situation was contributing to a high risk for the couple's daughter.
The consultant urgently requested the council rehouse the child, stating she is "at high risk for future life-threatening asthma attacks, hospital admissions and school absence". The letter concluded it was their belief the current housing "is significantly contributing to this ongoing risk".
Support has also come from the children's school. West London Free School Primary wrote multiple letters, with the Deputy Headteacher noting last July that the "persistently cold conditions" were exacerbating the children's medical symptoms, disrupting sleep and education, and harming the family's mental wellbeing.
Council response and legal battle
Hammersmith and Fulham Council, which owns the property, has a different assessment. A spokesperson said an inspection in December 2025 found no damp or mould issues in line with the national Housing Health and Safety Rating System. They noted the home has an EPC rating of C and stated they carry out repairs when needed.
However, the council added it remains "deeply concerned" about the children's welfare. The family disputes the council's view, with Mr Sumon claiming mould remains behind installed insulation and continues to affect their health.
The dispute has escalated to the courts. The family initiated legal proceedings over the disrepair, and in 2024 a judgement was made for Mr Sumon to be paid an amount to be decided plus costs. A hearing to assess costs was adjourned just before Christmas 2025 and is due to be rescheduled.
The family says they were told in 2023 they were registered for permanent rehousing to a three-bedroom home, but progress has since stalled, leaving them in a property they believe is making them ill.
