Tenant Rights for Damp and Mould Repairs 2025 are evolving, and if you’re renting in the UK, it’s important to know exactly where you stand. Living in a property affected by damp or mould isn’t just uncomfortable, it can seriously impact your health and wellbeing. That’s why knowing your rights and what your landlord is legally expected to do makes a real difference. If you’re facing issues and need help asserting your rights, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first call—it provides affordable, solicitor-backed support specifically for tenants dealing with housing disrepair, including damp and mould.
What Are Your Tenant Rights for Damp and Mould Repairs 2025?
As a tenant in 2025, you have stronger legal protections than in previous years. The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), which local councils use to assess risks in homes, classifies damp and mould as serious hazards. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, your landlord is legally obliged to keep your home in a good state of repair. This includes dealing with problems like rising damp, penetrating damp and mould caused by structural defects.
It’s also worth noting that as of recent updates, mould and damp are gaining more attention from both local councils and central government, especially where vulnerable tenants are involved, such as children or those with respiratory issues. Landlords must act within a reasonable timeframe once they’re aware of a problem or have been notified in writing.
When Should Your Landlord Take Action?
Once your landlord is made aware of any issues related to damp or mould, they are expected to investigate and carry out necessary repairs promptly. This usually means they have a “reasonable time” to deal with it, which can vary depending on the severity. For serious cases that threaten health, action should be taken within days, not weeks.
If your landlord ignores your complaint or delays unreasonably, you may have the right to get repairs done yourself and recover the cost, or take legal steps through Environmental Health at your local council. But always follow the proper process first: inform your landlord in writing, keep evidence of communication, and gather photo or video proof of the issue.
How to Report Damp and Mould Properly
Making a report the right way strengthens your position. Always:
- Report the issue in writing (email or letter)
- Include photos, a description of where the damp or mould is, and how long it’s been there
- Request a time frame for the repairs to take place
- Record all communication with your landlord or letting agent
You don’t need to be a legal expert, but being clear, factual and polite helps move things forward. Councils will also expect tenants to have tried resolving things with the landlord before getting involved.
Your Legal Options if the Landlord Fails to Respond
If your landlord does nothing after you’ve informed them, you can contact your local Environmental Health department. They will often inspect the property and can serve the landlord with an improvement notice if the problem is serious. They may also take enforcement action under the Housing Act 2004.
In some cases, you may also be able to make a claim for housing disrepair. This is especially likely if the damp or mould has led to health issues, damage to your belongings, or if it’s been ignored for an extended period. You’ll need documented evidence to support your claim, including medical letters, photos and written communication with your landlord.
Your Health and Safety Are Protected
Under UK housing law and updates for 2025, living in a property riddled with mould is not acceptable. You have the right to live in a home free from serious hazards. If mould or damp is caused by poor ventilation, broken heating, structural faults or poor insulation, those are your landlord’s responsibility to fix.
Landlords cannot blame tenants for issues caused by defects in the property. However, tenants do have a duty to use the property in a “tenant-like manner” which means reasonably ventilating rooms and reporting problems early.
The Role of Local Authorities in 2025
Thanks to increased public concern about housing standards, local councils are now better equipped to intervene when mould or damp is reported. If you’re not getting anywhere with your landlord, your council can come out to assess the property, order repairs and even fine landlords who fail to comply. This enforcement power ensures tenants aren’t left to suffer in silence.
Still, not all tenants feel confident handling this process, especially if their landlord is difficult to deal with. That’s where getting timely support makes a big difference.
Support Is Available to Help You Assert Your Rights
You don’t have to go through this alone. Legal support, tenant advocacy and housing disrepair services are available to make sure your voice is heard. Reaching out early can help prevent mould affecting your health or damaging your possessions.
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).
If you’re unsure about what steps to take or need practical help enforcing your rights, getting advice from professionals is highly recommended.
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.