A Guide To Dealing With Damp And Mould In A Rented Property
.webp)
Dealing with damp and mould in a rental property can be challenging for both tenants and landlords, as these issues can affect the property’s condition and the health and well-being of the occupants. Mould can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues, while persistent damp can damage the building structure.
Effectively addressing these problems requires cooperation between the tenant and landlord, a clear understanding of the responsibilities of both parties, and proper maintenance and repairs.
What Is Damp And Mould In A Property?
It’s essential to understand the different types of damp that can occur in a rental property, as each type has distinct causes, characteristics, and solutions. By identifying the specific type of damp affecting a property, tenants and landlords can take the appropriate steps to address the problem, prevent further damage, and maintain a healthy living environment.

In our article about “Who Is Responsible For Getting Rid Of Black Mould In A Rental Property?” we talk about the seriousness of black mould and its effects on your health. The most common types of black mould found in homes are Cladosporium and Alternaria fungi, which can cause allergies and acute asthma. Stachybotrys chartarum is less common but more serious, and can release toxins that are more harmful to humans.
Here’s a deeper look at the various types of damp:
Condensation: The most frequent cause of damp in homes, condensation occurs when warm, moist air (from activities like cooking, showering, or drying clothes indoors) meets cooler surfaces, such as windows or walls. It tends to be worse in winter when the air is colder and less likely to hold moisture.
Rising Damp: This is when moisture from the ground rises through the walls and floors of a building. It’s generally caused by a lack of or damage to the damp-proof course, a barrier designed to prevent water from seeping into the building’s structure.
Penetrating Damp: This type of damp happens when water infiltrates the building from the outside, often due to a leak in the roof, broken gutters, cracks in walls, or faulty windows. Unlike condensation, penetrating damp can appear at any height on a wall or ceiling.
Leaks: Dampness can also result from internal leaks, such as from plumbing issues, broken pipes, or leaks in bathrooms and kitchens. Leaks can cause localised damp patches and, if left untreated, can lead to extensive damage and mould growth.
Suzanne Smith from landlord blog The Independent Landlord shares her experience in the article about “How landlords should tackle damp and mould”: “I’ve had instances of damp and mould in two of my rental properties. One was due to a leak, and the other was due to a mixture of a leak and condensation. Unless the cause of the damp and mould is obvious, having been through it myself, I recommend having an expert inspect the property and advise on an appropriate course of action.”
How Do I Identify Signs of Damp and Mould In A House?
Early detection of damp and mould is crucial to prevent the issue from escalating into serious damage or health risks. Damp and mould can deteriorate the structure of a property, ruin personal belongings, and cause or worsen respiratory problems, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
By identifying the early signs, tenants and landlords can take proactive steps to mitigate the issue before it becomes more severe and costly to repair. Recognising and addressing these signs early can also prevent disputes between tenants and landlords over the cause and responsibility for fixing the problem.

Damp Patches
Dark or discoloured areas on walls, ceilings, or floors are clear signs of moisture. These patches may feel cold or clammy and can spread over time if left untreated. They are often caused by leaks, condensation, or rising damp.
Look for: Dark patches, usually near windows, doors, or low on walls, that grow or reappear after cleaning.
Peeling Paint or Wallpaper
Moisture behind paint or wallpaper can cause bubbling, peeling, or cracking, often seen in poorly ventilated rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Discoloured patches may also appear, indicating water damage.
Look for: Paint blistering, wallpaper peeling, and brown or yellow stains on walls or ceilings.
Musty Odours
A lingering musty smell suggests hidden mould or damp, even without visible signs. These odours are common in poorly ventilated areas like basements, attics, or closets.
Look for: Persistent musty smells, especially in rooms with limited airflow.
Mould Spots
Mould appears as black, grey, or green spots, often in damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or around windows. It can also grow on fabrics, carpets, and furniture exposed to moisture.
Look for: Clusters of dark mould spots, especially in corners or on damp fabrics and furniture.
Condensation
Frequent or heavy condensation on windows and cold surfaces can indicate excessive moisture. Left unchecked, this can damage woodwork or plaster and lead to mould growth.
Look for: Persistent condensation, especially on windows, and pools of water on sills.
Warped Woodwork
Swollen or warped floors, skirting boards, or door frames suggest long-term moisture exposure. Warping often points to deeper issues like leaks or rising damp.
Look for: Uneven, creaky floors and bowed or cracked woodwork.
This video from New2Property explains the different types of damp that can be found in houses and how to identify them.
Where Are High Risk Areas For Damp And Mould?
Certain areas in the home are more prone to damp and mould due to frequent exposure to moisture and poor ventilation. These areas require extra attention to prevent moisture buildup and ensure proper ventilation to avoid damp and mould growth.
Bathrooms: Constant exposure to steam from showers and baths makes bathrooms one of the most vulnerable areas for condensation and mould growth. Without proper ventilation, moisture can quickly accumulate on surfaces like walls, ceilings, and around windows, leading to damp patches and mould.
Kitchens: Cooking activities, especially when boiling water or using appliances like kettles and dishwashers, release a lot of moisture into the air. If not ventilated properly, this moisture can condense on cold surfaces and lead to mould or damp in corners, behind cupboards, or near windows.
Basements: Basements are particularly susceptible to damp because they are often below ground level, where moisture from the soil can seep through walls and floors. Poor ventilation and a lack of natural light can make it difficult for basements to dry out properly, making them ideal environments for mould to thrive.
Attics and Lofts: Moisture can build up in attics due to leaks in the roof, poor insulation, or lack of ventilation. Attics are often unheated and poorly ventilated, which makes them vulnerable to condensation forming on cold surfaces, particularly during winter.
Closets and Storage Areas: These are often closed-off spaces with little ventilation, making them ideal spots for moisture to build up unnoticed. Mould can develop on clothing, shoes, or stored items if they’re left in these areas for extended periods without proper airflow.
What Are Tenant Responsibilities With Damp And Mould?
Tenants must ensure they’re taking reasonable steps to avoid contributing to damp problems. This includes using extractor fans, heating the property properly, and avoiding practices that increase moisture in the air, like drying clothes indoors or blocking vents.
.webp)
Inventory management company No Letting Go states in their article about “Landlord Mould Responsibility” that: “With regards to mould, when fingers are pointed, things can get complicated. Determining whether mould in a property is due to the tenant’s lifestyle habits or the poor ventilation of the property can be tricky.”
If you notice any signs of damp or mould in your rental property, it’s important to report the issue to your landlord or property management agency as quickly as possible. Prompt reporting helps ensure the problem is addressed before it worsens.
To protect yourself and maintain a clear record, document the issue in writing—whether by email or letter—so there's a formal log of your communication. When reporting, be specific about the location and severity of the problem. Describe where the damp or mould is appearing (e.g., bathroom ceiling, living room wall) and include details about the size and scope of the affected area. Where possible, attach clear photos to support your report, as this will help the landlord or management agency understand the extent of the issue and act accordingly. Keeping a detailed record will also be important if the problem escalates or if any disputes arise later on.
What Immediate Preventative Actions Can I Take Against Damp And Mould?
While waiting for the landlord to address any major issues, tenants can take steps to minimise the spread of damp and mould.
In their article “A Landlord’s Guide to Mould in Rental Properties” Landlord Vision advises: “Mould doesn’t grow overnight, so keep a close eye on the property during inspections. It might be worth making your tenants aware of how mould and mildew can form if you notice they frequently dry clothes on radiators or if they don’t use the heating very often.”
Increase Ventilation: Open windows regularly, especially after cooking, showering, or using appliances that generate moisture. Use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens if they’re available.
Maintain Consistent Heating: Keep the property at a steady temperature, as fluctuating temperatures can increase condensation. During colder months, even minimal heating in unused rooms can help prevent condensation from forming.
Use Dehumidifiers: In areas particularly prone to damp, using a dehumidifier or moisture absorber can help reduce excess moisture in the air, making the environment less hospitable to mould growth.
Avoid Drying Clothes Indoors: If possible, dry clothes outside. Condensation from wet clothes can significantly contribute to damp problems. If you must dry clothes indoors, use a room with good ventilation and keep windows open. If you can’t leave your windows locked and open slightly, these window safety locks allow you to keep air flowing through while maintaining safety.
This video from Hackney Council has some great tips on how to prevent damp and mould in your property.
How Do I Clean And Treat Damp And Mould?
If the mould issue is limited to minor areas, such as small patches on walls, ceilings, or around windows, tenants may be able to handle the cleaning themselves. Start by applying a commercial mould removal spray - there are plenty available on the market for different surfaces. Use a cloth or sponge to scrub the affected surface gently, ensuring that you do not spread the mould spores to other parts of the room.
It is important to take safety precautions during this process. Always wear protective gear, including rubber gloves, goggles, and a mask, to avoid coming into direct contact with the mould or inhaling harmful spores. Ventilate the room by opening windows or turning on exhaust fans to minimise your exposure to airborne particles.
This video from In The Wash shows how you can make your own mould remover at home using vinegar and bleach, as well as more useful hacks!
Once the visible mould has been cleaned, preventing its return requires ongoing attention. Ensure the treated area is kept dry, as moisture is the primary cause of mould growth. Regularly inspect the cleaned areas for any signs of recurring dampness, such as condensation or water leaks.
What Are My Landlord’s Legal Responsibilities With Damp And Mould?
Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 (in England and Wales), landlords are legally required to ensure that rental properties are safe and free from hazards, including damp and mould. If damp and mould are caused by structural issues, the landlord must arrange for repairs. Failure to do so can lead to the tenant taking legal action, and the landlord may be required to compensate the tenant or make significant repairs.
Landlords are responsible for repairing damage to the property’s structure and exterior, including fixing leaky roofs, repairing faulty plumbing, and addressing rising or penetrating damp. This is part of their duty to maintain a safe and habitable living environment.
Richard Abbots is founder and CEO at Inventory Hive talks to the Tenancy Deposit Scheme about how landlords can keep an eye on damp: “This is where interim property inspections are useful. Seasonal visits should be planned to check for potential leaks or condensation issues before, during and after the wet weather months. This will highlight potential problems before they become major issues.”
Once a tenant has informed you about a damp or mould issue, you are legally obligated to investigate the problem and take appropriate action within a reasonable timeframe. Ignoring or delaying a response could lead to further complications, both for the property and for your relationship with the tenant.
Damp and mould not only compromise the structure of the building—causing potential long-term damage to walls, floors, and ceilings—but they also pose serious health risks, such as respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma, especially for vulnerable tenants.
This could involve improving ventilation, fixing leaks, or addressing structural issues that allow moisture to enter. By dealing with the issue promptly and professionally, landlords can protect their property, avoid legal repercussions, and maintain a positive relationship with their tenants.
What To Do If My Landlord Fails To Act On Damp And Mould?
If left unresolved, tenants may have grounds to take legal action or claim compensation due to neglect, potentially resulting in costly litigation. Therefore, it’s crucial to act swiftly by arranging for a professional inspection to identify the cause of the damp and implementing effective repairs or remediation. If the landlord does not take reasonable steps to address damp and mould issues after being informed, tenants have several options:
Local Authorities: Contact the environmental health department of the local council. They can inspect the property and, if necessary, issue an enforcement notice requiring the landlord to carry out repairs.
Rent Reductions or Compensation: In cases where the property becomes uninhabitable due to damp and mould, tenants might be entitled to claim a reduction in rent or compensation. This is often pursued through a tenancy deposit protection scheme or in severe cases, legal action.
Legal Advice: If damp or mould issues persist and are causing health problems or damage to personal belongings, tenants can seek legal advice from housing organisations or solicitors. These professionals can help determine whether the tenant has a case for compensation or legal recourse.
By taking a proactive approach, both tenants and landlords can help prevent damp and mould from becoming a severe issue and ensure a healthy, safe, and comfortable living environment for everyone involved. Early detection, proper communication, and prompt repairs are key to resolving damp and mould problems efficiently.