Damp and Mould: A Guide for Tenants
Damp and mould are common problems in many homes and can pose risks to both your health and your home’s condition. As a tenant, it’s important to understand what causes them, how to deal with them, and what your rights are. This guide will help you take action.
What Are Damp and Mould?
- Damp occurs when excess moisture builds up in your home. This can lead to mould, a type of fungus that grows in damp environments.
- Common signs of damp and mould include:
- A musty smell.
- Black, green, or white mould spots on walls, ceilings, or furniture.
- Peeling wallpaper or paint.
- Damp patches on walls or floors.
Common Causes of Damp and Mould
- Condensation: Happens when warm air meets cold surfaces, like windows or walls. This is often caused by:
- Poor ventilation (e.g., not enough fresh air in your home).
- Drying clothes indoors without proper airflow.
- Cooking or showering without extractor fans.
2. Leaking Pipes or Roofs: A leaking pipe, roof, or gutter can lead to penetrating damp, where water soaks through the building.
3. Structural Issues: Cracked walls or poor damp-proofing can allow water to rise from the ground, causing rising damp.
Why It’s Important to Act
Health Risks:
- Damp and mould can worsen asthma and other respiratory conditions.
- Mould exposure can cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.
- Children, elderly people, and those with health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Damage to Your Home:
- Left untreated, damp and mould can damage furniture, walls, and flooring, making repairs more costly.
What You Can Do
Preventing Damp and Mould
- Ventilate Your Home:
- Open windows regularly.
- Use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Avoid blocking air vents or trickle vents.
- Reduce Moisture:
- Dry clothes outdoors or use a vented tumble dryer.
- Cover pans when cooking to reduce steam.
- Keep lids on aquariums or plants that release high moisture.
- Control Heating:
- Maintain a consistent temperature to prevent condensation on cold surfaces.
Dealing with Mould
- For small areas of mould, clean it using a mould remover or a mixture of vinegar and water. Wear gloves and ventilate the room while cleaning.
- Avoid painting over mould—it won’t solve the problem!
Your Landlord’s Responsibilities
As a tenant, it’s your landlord’s duty to ensure your home is safe and free from serious damp or mould issues. Under UK law, landlords must:
- Fix structural issues or leaks causing damp.
- Ensure your property is habitable and complies with housing standards.
What to Do if You Have Damp and Mould
1. Report the Problem:
- Contact repairs team via online repairs form below to report damp or mould problem
2. Allow Access for Repairs:
- Be cooperative with inspections or repair work arranged by your landlord.
