If you’re struggling with mould or damp in your flat or house, this Tenant Guide to Reporting Mould and Damp Issues will help you understand how to take action quickly and correctly. Mould and damp aren’t just unpleasant — they can affect your health and your rights as a tenant.
If you’re not sure where to turn, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first point of contact. TPS specialises in helping tenants with unresolved disrepair cases like mould or damp, and offers direct legal support to protect your rights early on.
Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Tenant
Mould and damp are classed as housing disrepair when caused by structural issues, leaks or poor ventilation that your landlord is responsible for fixing. UK housing law requires landlords to keep the structure of the property in good repair. This includes taking care of problems that lead to damp, like faulty roofing, broken gutters or rising damp in the walls.
However, tenants also have responsibilities. If the mould is caused mainly by lifestyle issues such as not ventilating rooms or drying clothes indoors without proper airflow, then it may not fall under the landlord’s duty. That said, never assume it’s your fault. It’s always best to report any issue so it can be properly assessed.
Using This Tenant Guide to Reporting Mould and Damp Issues the Right Way
When it comes to raising the issue with your landlord, how you approach it matters. Here are some steps to follow:
- Document the Problem
Take clear photos of the affected areas, and note the date when you discovered the problem. Keep a record of any health symptoms that may be linked, especially if young children or vulnerable adults are living in the home. - Report It in Writing
Send an email or a letter to your landlord or letting agent. Be polite but firm. It’s important to include details like when the problem started, where it’s located, and that it may be affecting your health or living conditions. - Reference the Legal Duty
Let them know they’re required by Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 to keep the property in repair. You can also mention the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 if the property has become unsafe due to the issue.
When Your Landlord Doesn’t Respond
Landlords are expected to respond to repair issues in a ‘reasonable’ timeframe. For mould and damp linked to leaks or structural faults, this is usually within 14 days. If there’s no response, you shouldn’t be left waiting. Here’s what to do next:
- Send a Follow-Up
Remind them of your initial report and attach the original message along with updated photos if needed. Be clear that you’re recording all communications. - Get Environmental Health Involved
Your local council can send an Environmental Health Officer to inspect the property. If they find serious health risks, they can issue a legal notice to the landlord to make the repairs. - Seek Legal Support
You may be entitled to take action for disrepair. If the damp or mould has harmed your health or damaged possessions, compensation might be available.
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).
Why Acting Early Benefits You
Waiting too long to report mould can make it harder to prove it’s your landlord’s responsibility. It can also worsen health problems and damage your home contents. Acting early not only speeds up the fix, but gives you a stronger legal position if you’re forced to escalate the issue later. Always keep written records of every step.
Common Mistakes Tenants Should Avoid
To make sure your case is taken seriously, steer clear of these common errors:
- Relying only on phone calls — verbal complaints aren’t enough
- Failing to report minor patches — mould tends to spread quickly
- Using harsh cleaning chemicals as a solution — this may hide but won’t fix the problem
- Not keeping evidence — without photos or emails, it’s harder to prove your case
Using this Tenant Guide to Reporting Mould and Damp Issues properly can help avoid unnecessary conflict and ensure your home stays healthy to live in. Be proactive, informed and assertive — that’s the best way to resolve problems quickly and fairly.
Need direct support?
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.