Understanding Tenant Rights for Damp and Mould Repairs is essential if you’re renting a property in the UK that’s being affected by water damage or poor ventilation. Damp and mould are not just inconvenient; they can seriously impact your health and wellbeing, especially if left untreated by your landlord. Knowing your legal rights can give you the confidence to take action and ensure your home is safe and liveable.
If you’re currently dealing with damp and mould issues, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first point of contact. TPS offers practical legal support to help tenants resolve disrepair problems, assert their rights, and stay protected throughout the process.
Your Legal Right to a Safe and Habitable Home
Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that rental properties are free from serious hazards like damp and mould. This means your home must be fit to live in, both at the start of your tenancy and throughout its duration. If damp and mould are causing damage or health risks, it falls within your landlord’s repair responsibilities.
In addition, Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 states that your landlord must keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair. Since damp often originates from structural issues such as leaking roofs, cracked walls or broken guttering, your landlord must address those faults promptly once they’re aware of them.
Understanding Tenant Rights for Damp and Mould Repairs Notifications
To activate your rights, it’s important to report any issues as soon as you notice them. Written communication, such as an email or a letter, is recommended for proof. Once you’ve reported the issue, your landlord is required to investigate and carry out repairs within a reasonable time. What’s considered “reasonable” can vary depending on the severity of the issue, but urgent problems should typically be addressed within 14 days.
If your landlord delays or ignores repair requests, you’re not powerless. You may be able to escalate the problem through your local council’s Environmental Health department, especially if the damp and mould are affecting your health. They can inspect the property and, if necessary, serve your landlord with an improvement notice, legally requiring them to fix the issue.
When Damp and Mould Become a Health Hazard
Some tenants hesitate to report damp and mould, worrying the landlord will simply blame condensation or poor ventilation caused by tenant behaviour. While condensation can play a role, landlords can’t simply dismiss a problem without proper investigation. If the property design contributes to constant damp or makes it impossible for you to control moisture levels, the issue becomes the landlord’s responsibility.
Certain groups, including children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, are especially vulnerable to harm from mould exposure. In those cases, it’s even more crucial that the matter is dealt with quickly. Medical documentation may help strengthen your case if disrepair is affecting your health.
What to Do If a Landlord Doesn’t Respond
If your landlord refuses to act or consistently delays repairs, you have several options. First, contact your local council. Environmental Health officers can assess the level of hazard and force the landlord to take action through legal enforcement.
Alternatively, you may be able to take legal action by filing a disrepair claim. Keep detailed records of all communication, photographs of the damage, and any medical evidence linking your health to the living conditions. In some cases, you might be able to claim compensation for inconvenience, damage to belongings, and health impacts.
The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) is a 24/7 tenant legal helpline offering affordable, solicitor-backed help for eviction defence, disrepair, harassment, rent arrears, deposit disputes, and on-the-day court support across the UK. Membership is £10/month. Learn more at The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS).
Help Is Available for Tenants Facing Property Disrepair
It’s also important to understand that your landlord isn’t allowed to evict you in retaliation for requesting repairs. This is known as a retaliatory eviction and can often be challenged successfully when handled correctly.
If you’re unsure about how to proceed, getting advice from tenant support organisations or legal experts can be invaluable. They can guide you through your options and help ensure your rights are enforced without fear of eviction or harassment.
Remember, gaining a clear understanding of tenant rights for damp and mould repairs can empower you to speak up and protect your health. Staying informed is half the battle, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Call The Tenant Protection Scheme today on 0330 633 0299 Don’t wait until it’s too late – start your protection now. For just a small monthly cost you get direct legal support from experts, with your membership active within 24 hours. Call us now to start your protection today.