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Damp and mould

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Tenant rights

Damp and mould can pose serious health risks and damage your home. As a tenant, you have the right to live in a safe and healthy environment. This guide outlines your rights, responsibilities, and the steps you can take to address damp and mould issues in your rented home.

Understanding responsibilities

Your landlord is responsible for ensuring your rental property is fit for human habitation. This includes:

Maintaining proper insulation, heating, and ventilation
Addressing structural issues that lead to dampness, such as leaks or poor drainage
Providing a property free from damp and mould from the start to the end of your tenancy

While you're expected to use heating and ventilation properly, you're not responsible for structural problems that cause damp.

Taking action

By understanding your rights and taking proactive steps, you can make sure you are living in a healthy and safe environment.

Preventing damp and mould

There are a number of things you can do yourself to tackle minor condensation and mould issues which can significantly improve air quality and reduce moisture.

Reporting to your landlord

If condensation doesn't go away, or you suspect more serious issues like water getting into the property, or rising damp, contact your landlord immediately.

Clearly explain the problem, describe any steps you've already taken, and request prompt action.

You could ask about upgrading the insulation, heating, or ventilation. Energy-efficient homes are less susceptible to damp and mould.

Keep a record of all communication, including dates, written documents, photos of the problem, and any damage caused.

If your landlord doesn't respond

Send written reminders if your landlord fails to acknowledge or address the issue.

If they don't respond after reminders, let them know you'll involve the council's private housing enforcement team.

In severe cases where your health is at risk, contact us. We can work with your landlord and issue legal notices to ensure repairs are carried out.

Social housing tenants

Follow your landlord's complaints policy:

Submit complaints through their website, phone, or email.
Escalate unresolved issues through their established procedures.
If unsatisfied after escalating within the social housing system, consider contacting the Housing Ombudsman for further investigation.