Damp and mould in rental properties are significant issues that can affect tenant health and safety. Landlords have legal responsibilities to address these problems, as they often stem from structural issues or insufficient maintenance. Here’s an overview of the topic and what both tenants and landlords should know:
Common Causes of Damp and Mould
1. Structural Problems:
o Leaking roofs, blocked gutters, leaking internal pipes or rising damp from poorly sealed walls or foundations.
2. Poor Ventilation:
o Lack of proper airflow, ineffective ventilation, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, can lead to condensation build-up.
3. Tenant Activities:
o High humidity from drying clothes indoors, cooking without ventilation, or not using heating can contribute.
Landlord Responsibilities
Under UK law, landlords must:
1. Provide Safe and Habitable Accommodation:
o Landlords must ensure properties are free from hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), which includes addressing damp and mould issues.
2. Repair Structural Problems:
o Leaks, rising damp, or defective windows contributing to damp fall under the landlord’s responsibility.
3. Comply with Awaab’s Law (from 2024):
o Following the tragic case of Awaab Ishak, landlords will be required to fix serious damp and mould issues within specified timeframes once notified.
Health Risks of Damp and Mould
Exposure can lead to:
• Respiratory problems (e.g., asthma, infections).
• Allergic reactions or skin irritation.
• Increased vulnerability in individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions.
• Mental health issues and concerns living with damp and mould and feeling unheard/being blamed for damp and mould.
Prevention and Solutions
• Landlords: Improve insulation, repair structural damage, and install effective ventilation systems, respond in a timely manner, educate and support tenants. Get in touch with your local council to see what you can do to help your tenants’ struggling with fuel poverty.
• Tenants: Use extractor fans, keep windows open where possible, and avoid drying clothes indoors without ventilation.
For further information, please visit the below..
Understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home – GOV.UK
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