If you’re living in rented housing and notice moisture build-up or mould, this tenant guide to reporting mould and damp for urgent fixes will help you act fast and protect your health. Mould can develop quickly in poorly ventilated or damp spaces, and it’s not just unsightly — it can also cause serious respiratory issues. Knowing how to report these problems correctly can mean the difference between a quick fix and long-term damage.
When you’re dealing with mould or damp in your rental property, it’s essential to get the right support in place quickly. The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first point of contact for legal-backed tenant advice. They can guide you through the steps and ensure your rights are enforced if your landlord fails to act.
Tenant Guide to Reporting Mould and Damp for Urgent Fixes
If mould or damp appears in your rental property, it’s important to act promptly. Mould can spread rapidly, and if left unaddressed, it may become a hazard to health — especially for children, elderly people or those with asthma. As a tenant, your first step is to understand your landlord’s responsibilities under UK housing law.
Legally, your landlord must ensure the property is fit to live in. That includes fixing structural damp issues and mould caused by leaks, broken ventilation or poor insulation. If the mould is due to disrepair — like faulty plumbing or cracks in the walls — it’s your landlord’s duty to act fast and resolve it. You also have a responsibility to report it as soon as you notice it.
How to Report Mould and Damp to Your Landlord the Right Way
Start by gathering evidence. Take clear photographs of the affected areas, noting dates when you first noticed the issue. If there’s a smell or visible moisture, document that too. Then, write to your landlord or letting agent in a calm, factual email or letter. Describe the problem, mention when it began and explain that you’re requesting repairs under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
Keep records of every exchange. This includes emails, call logs, text messages and any responses. If your landlord refuses to take action or delays unreasonably, these records can support your case if you need legal help later. Also, avoid relying on verbal agreements — always get confirmation in writing.
Common Causes of Mould Tenants Should Look Out For
Understanding the source of the mould can strengthen your report. While condensation from daily activities is common, many cases stem from fixable faults. Here are a few issues that may place responsibility on the landlord:
- Leaks from roofs, windows or pipes
- Blocked gutters or poor drainage
- Cracked walls or damaged render
- Inadequate ventilation fans in bathrooms or kitchens
- Broken heating systems leading to excess cold or damp
Responsibility sometimes depends on the cause. For example, if mould forms strictly from condensation due to lifestyle habits like drying clothes inside without ventilation, your landlord might not be liable. Still, if structural issues play a role, it becomes their problem to resolve.
When Should You Escalate the Mould Problem?
If you’ve reported the issue and there’s no response within 14 days, it may be time to escalate. You can:
- Contact your local council’s environmental health team
- Request a Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) inspection
- Seek expert support like a housing solicitor or tenant protection scheme
Council teams have the authority to inspect and can serve notices requiring landlords to carry out essential repairs. In serious cases of neglect, enforcement action may follow. This also strengthens your legal standing if the matter leads to a tribunal.
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).
Protecting Yourself While Living with Ongoing Mould Issues
While you wait for repairs, take steps to minimise health risks. Keep windows open regularly to improve airflow. Consider using a dehumidifier if the property feels damp. Avoid sleeping in affected rooms if possible, especially if you have allergies or asthma. You are not expected to live with conditions that pose a health risk — and it’s okay to say so in your report.
Also, be aware that if mould damage spreads to your belongings, you may be entitled to compensation. This only applies if the cause was due to disrepair and the landlord ignored your warnings. So keep a clear timeline of your communications and avoid delays in reporting new developments.
Know Your Rights and Take Action Early
As a tenant, you have the right to live in a safe, habitable environment. If you follow this tenant guide to reporting mould and damp for urgent fixes, you’ll improve your chances of a quicker resolution. The sooner you act, the easier it is to hold your landlord accountable and prevent lasting health effects or property damage.
There’s no need to suffer in silence or handle it on your own. Legal support and tenant protection resources are available if you feel stuck or ignored. That’s where membership in a tenant protection scheme can add vital peace of mind.
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.