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09 March 2026
Mould and damp are common problems in many homes, especially during colder months.
They can damage property, create unpleasant living conditions, and may even affect health if left untreated. Preventing mould and damp is a shared responsibility between landlords and
tenants. By working together and following some simple steps, both parties can help keep properties safe, dry, and comfortable.
Understanding Mould and Damp
Mould grows in areas where there is excess moisture, poor ventilation, and cool surfaces.
It often appears as black, green, or white patches on walls, ceilings, windows, and furniture. Damp conditions can be caused by condensation, leaks, poor insulation, or structural issues within the building. Condensation is the most common cause of mould in homes. It happens when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces such as windows or walls, causing water droplets to
form.
Responsibilities of Landlords
Landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure that the property they rent out is safe, well-maintained, and free from serious damp problems caused by structural issues.
1. Maintain the Structure of the Property
Landlords should ensure that roofs, walls, windows, and foundations are in good condition. Cracks, damaged gutters, and leaking roofs can allow water to enter the property and cause
damp.
2. Repair Plumbing and Leaks Promptly
Leaking pipes, faulty boilers, or broken seals around baths and sinks can quickly lead to damp and mould. These issues should be repaired as soon as they are reported.
3. Provide Proper Ventilation
Good ventilation helps remove moisture from the air. Landlords should ensure that properties
have:
A well-insulated property helps maintain consistent temperatures and reduces condensation.
Landlords should make sure heating systems are working properly and insulation meets
current standards.
5. Respond to Damp and Mould Reports
If tenants report mould or damp, landlords should investigate the cause and take appropriate
action. Ignoring the problem can lead to further damage and potential legal issues.
Responsibilities of Tenants
Tenants also play an important role in preventing mould and damp through everyday
household habits.
1. Ventilate the Property
Opening windows regularly allows moisture to escape. Even 10–15 minutes a day can help
reduce condensation.
Tenants should also use extractor fans when cooking or showering and keep bathroom and
kitchen doors closed while producing steam.
2. Avoid Drying Clothes Indoors
Drying clothes on radiators or inside rooms releases a large amount of moisture into the air. If
indoor drying is necessary, it should be done in a well-ventilated space or using a tumble
dryer if available.
3. Maintain Consistent Heating
Keeping the heating on a low and steady setting can help prevent cold surfaces where
condensation forms.
4. Wipe Away Condensation
If windows or walls become wet with condensation, wiping them down can help prevent
moisture from soaking into surfaces and causing mould.
5. Avoid Blocking Airflow
Large furniture such as wardrobes or beds should not be pushed tightly against cold external
walls. Leaving a small gap allows air to circulate.
6. Report Problems Early
Tenants should inform landlords as soon as they notice:
Working Together to Prevent Problems
Preventing mould and damp requires cooperation between landlords and tenants. Landlords
must ensure the property is structurally sound and properly maintained, while tenants should
use the property in a way that minimises moisture and promotes ventilation.
When both parties communicate clearly and address issues quickly, it becomes much easier to
maintain a healthy, safe, and comfortable home.
They can damage property, create unpleasant living conditions, and may even affect health if left untreated. Preventing mould and damp is a shared responsibility between landlords and
tenants. By working together and following some simple steps, both parties can help keep properties safe, dry, and comfortable.
Understanding Mould and Damp
Mould grows in areas where there is excess moisture, poor ventilation, and cool surfaces.
It often appears as black, green, or white patches on walls, ceilings, windows, and furniture. Damp conditions can be caused by condensation, leaks, poor insulation, or structural issues within the building. Condensation is the most common cause of mould in homes. It happens when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces such as windows or walls, causing water droplets to
form.
Responsibilities of Landlords
Landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure that the property they rent out is safe, well-maintained, and free from serious damp problems caused by structural issues.
1. Maintain the Structure of the Property
Landlords should ensure that roofs, walls, windows, and foundations are in good condition. Cracks, damaged gutters, and leaking roofs can allow water to enter the property and cause
damp.
2. Repair Plumbing and Leaks Promptly
Leaking pipes, faulty boilers, or broken seals around baths and sinks can quickly lead to damp and mould. These issues should be repaired as soon as they are reported.
3. Provide Proper Ventilation
Good ventilation helps remove moisture from the air. Landlords should ensure that properties
have:
- Working extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
- Windows that open properly
- Adequate ventilation systems where required
A well-insulated property helps maintain consistent temperatures and reduces condensation.
Landlords should make sure heating systems are working properly and insulation meets
current standards.
5. Respond to Damp and Mould Reports
If tenants report mould or damp, landlords should investigate the cause and take appropriate
action. Ignoring the problem can lead to further damage and potential legal issues.
Responsibilities of Tenants
Tenants also play an important role in preventing mould and damp through everyday
household habits.
1. Ventilate the Property
Opening windows regularly allows moisture to escape. Even 10–15 minutes a day can help
reduce condensation.
Tenants should also use extractor fans when cooking or showering and keep bathroom and
kitchen doors closed while producing steam.
2. Avoid Drying Clothes Indoors
Drying clothes on radiators or inside rooms releases a large amount of moisture into the air. If
indoor drying is necessary, it should be done in a well-ventilated space or using a tumble
dryer if available.
3. Maintain Consistent Heating
Keeping the heating on a low and steady setting can help prevent cold surfaces where
condensation forms.
4. Wipe Away Condensation
If windows or walls become wet with condensation, wiping them down can help prevent
moisture from soaking into surfaces and causing mould.
5. Avoid Blocking Airflow
Large furniture such as wardrobes or beds should not be pushed tightly against cold external
walls. Leaving a small gap allows air to circulate.
6. Report Problems Early
Tenants should inform landlords as soon as they notice:
- Persistent mould
- Water leaks
- Damp patches on walls or ceilings
- Broken ventilation or heating systems
Working Together to Prevent Problems
Preventing mould and damp requires cooperation between landlords and tenants. Landlords
must ensure the property is structurally sound and properly maintained, while tenants should
use the property in a way that minimises moisture and promotes ventilation.
When both parties communicate clearly and address issues quickly, it becomes much easier to
maintain a healthy, safe, and comfortable home.