If your landlord has claimed part of your tenancy deposit for what they say is “mould damage,” you might be wondering what you can do. Understanding how to contest mould deposit deductions UK is essential if you believe the charge is unfair, especially when the cause of mould lies beyond your control.
Before doing anything else, it’s worth speaking to a specialist legal service for tenants. The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) provides direct access to experienced housing solicitors who can help you challenge unfair deductions and secure your rights quickly.
Know Your Rights Before Accepting Any Deduction
Before signing off on any deductions, it’s helpful to know that your deposit is legally protected under the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) if you’re on an assured shorthold tenancy in England or Wales. This means that any deductions your landlord wants to make must be justified with clear evidence, not just assumptions or vague claims of damage.
Landlords are responsible for providing a property that is safe and fit for living. That includes making sure there’s no mould due to structural defects like leaks, poor ventilation, or faulty insulation. If mould is a result of these issues, then you shouldn’t be held financially responsible when you move out.
How To Contest Mould Deposit Deductions UK: Step-by-Step
If you’ve been charged for mould at the end of your tenancy, follow these steps to build your case effectively and challenge the deduction:
- Request Evidence from Your Landlord
Your landlord must provide specific evidence for any deductions, such as dated photos of mould damage, quotes for cleaning or repair work, and a copy of the check-out inventory. If they cannot provide this, the claim lacks strength.
- Compare with the Check-in Inventory
Use the initial inventory report, photos, and any communications about damp or disrepair to show that mould was either pre-existing or caused by issues reported during your tenancy. The more dated evidence you have, the stronger your position will be.
- Gather Your Own Evidence
If you reported damp or mould during your tenancy, dig out those emails, texts, or repair requests. You can also bring in photos you took throughout your stay. Time-stamped images and repair logs make it hard for unfair deductions to stand up under scrutiny.
- Write to Your Landlord Formally
Explain clearly and calmly that you’re disputing the deduction for mould, laying out your reasons. Attach the evidence you’ve gathered. Ask them to return the disputed amount within a reasonable timeframe, such as 7 to 14 days.
- Escalate to the Deposit Protection Scheme
If your landlord refuses or doesn’t respond, raise the matter through the government-backed deposit protection service they used (check your deposit paperwork or ask the landlord if unsure). All schemes offer a free Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process, where an independent adjudicator will assess both sides.
Why Mould Deductions Are Often Unreasonable
Many renters don’t realise that mould is frequently due to structural issues, not tenant neglect. If your home suffered from poor ventilation, leaky walls, or broken extractor fans, then preventing mould may have been out of your hands. Plus, you’re not expected to carry out major maintenance or stop condensation under impossible conditions.
Tenants are expected to heat and ventilate properly where possible, but this must be balanced with affordability and the property’s design. If the landlord didn’t fix reported issues, this supports your case further.
Common Misunderstandings Around Mould Disputes
- “You didn’t open the windows enough” – If windows were faulty or security risks, you can explain this.
- “You caused the damage by drying clothes indoors” – If there was no other drying option and ventilation was inadequate, that’s significant.
- “It’s routine cleaning” – Mould growth isn’t the same as a cleanliness issue, so it shouldn’t be treated like carpet stains or grime.
Time Limits and Why Prompt Action Matters
You usually have 10 days after being proposed a deposit deduction to raise a dispute informally. If talks fail, your deposit scheme will have a deadline (generally three months) to accept official ADR applications. So it’s worth acting quickly before time runs out.
If you ignore deposit deductions or delay too long, you risk not recovering the unfairly held amount. Beyond losing money, unresolved disputes can follow you into future rental checks if landlords share information about former tenants.
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).
Tips to Avoid This Issue in the Future
- Always take detailed photos of each room when you move in and out.
- Report mould, leaks, or damp early and keep records of your complaints.
- Ask your landlord to confirm their deposit protection scheme in writing.
- Use a humidity meter and dehumidifier if you suspect condensation problems.
You’re not alone in facing unfair deductions. With the right steps, you stand a strong chance of recovering what you’re owed and holding your landlord accountable.
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.