• I WISH to alert occupants of council blocks in Islington who have an internal (windowless) bathroom/ toilet to a potential health hazard within their homes.

Ventilation is usually via a communal system which must run continuously as required by building regulations.

But according to contractor MPS these systems are usually set to shut down overnight, sometimes as early as 10pm, because the council consider ventilation is unnecessary during that time.

I was finally told this after six months of contradictory or nonsensical emails from MPS while attempting to get 24-hour ventilation in my block.

A communal system links many flats and when non-operational allows passage of air between them, bringing a variety of smells and the threat of airborne infection.

This loss of segregation between flats during the coronavirus crisis may compromise attempts by occupants to shield or self-isolate for their own or others’ safety.

I have relayed this public health issue to the highest levels of the council but, despite my arguing that it must honour its duty of care and comply with the building regulations by instructing MPS to act, nothing has been done.

It seems clear the council will move only when challenged by a critical mass of residents who are aware of its inaction and the possible consequences.

To check if your flat is affected, place a sheet of toilet tissue over the extraction grille. If it doesn’t stick you too are a victim of this risky, penny-pinching, exercise and should immediately contact the council housing direct on 0800 694 3344.

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