Tackling damp and mould

3 min read

 Along with our video, this page provides advice if your tenant has damp and mould.

Tenant responsibilities

Everyday things like cooking, showering and drying clothes can cause moisture, and lead to condensation and a build-up of damp and mould on walls in the air. This can lead to condensation, which may turn into damp and mould on your walls. You are expected to keep your home well ventilated to help prevent this.

Ways to prevent the build-up of condensation

• Cover pans when cooking
• Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
• Close internal doors when cooking and showering
• Dry clothes outdoors or use a tumble dryer
• If you must dry washing indoors, use the bathroom with the door shut and the extractor fan on
• Open windows for 5-10 minutes in the morning and after you have a bath or shower
• Keep a window ajar and trickle vents open when using a room
• Do not leave windows wide open in winter (1-2 cm is sufficient)
• Ask your landlord about humidity-controlled fans in the kitchen and bathroom
• Use a cooker hood that vents outside
• Regularly air cupboards and wardrobes and do not overfill
• Leave space between furniture and walls to let air flow
• Do not place wardrobes and furniture against external facing walls
• Do not block chimneys or air vents – they need to stay clear

What to do if you notice damp and mould

Tell your landlord straight away, and put it in writing. Keep good ventilation tips (as shown above) and keep the property warm, the following steps are important to consider:

• Do not brush mould – it spreads spores in the air
• Use a specialist mould cleaner – follow the instructions on the label
• Wash mildewed clothes and shampoo carpets.
• Wipe moisture off windows and surfaces, and squeeze the cloth out over the sink
• Use a dehumidifier

Once the moisture and mould is under control, you can consider painting the worst affected walls with a mould resistant paint. Do not paint with normal emulsion or wallpaper, and always ensure you discuss any redecoration with your landlord first.

Landlord responsibilities

If the damp and mould isn’t caused by a repair issue, your landlord may consider improvements to heating, insulation and ventilation

• Arrange a visit to the property and thoroughly inspect the problem
• Carry out repairs in a reasonable time, including:
  • Leaking pipes
  • Broken heating systems
  • Replacing roof tiles
  • Repairing cracked walls and rotten window frames
  • Fixing damaged walls, skirting boards or floors
  • Redecorating affected areas
• If the damp and mould isn’t caused by a repair issue, your landlord may consider improvements to heating, insulation and ventilation