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Damp and Mould in UK Housing: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

  • Writer: Elite Bookings
    Elite Bookings
  • Sep 1
  • 2 min read

Everyone has the right to a warm, healthy, clean and safe home. Damp and mould, though, are still a prevalent problem around the UK, but mostly in social and private rented properties. The impact is not just cosmetic and they may kill.


Big Ben in London representing UK housing standards and government guidance on damp and mould in homes

The horrific death of 2-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020 from prolonged exposure to mould at his family home put the immediate need for landlords to take seriously complaints about damp and mould into clear focus.


This blog outlines the health risks, legal requirements, and practical measures needed of landlords to protect tenants.


Health Risks of Damp and Mould


  • Damp and mould are not just a nuisance in houses — they ruin health and wellbeing.


  • Respiratory illness: Contact may trigger asthma, exacerbate respiratory conditions, and cause lung infections.


  • Skin and eye irritation: Mould spores will trigger rashes, red eyes, and general discomfort.


  • Mental health implications: Damp and mould have stress, anxiety, and lowered quality of life.


  • Susceptible groups: Children, older persons, and those with health conditions are most impacted.


UK Statutory Regulations for Damp and Mould in Leased Properties


Landlords have a legal requirement to provide safe, habitable homes. Failure to address damp and mould can lead to prosecution or financial penalties. Key legislation is:


  • Housing Act 2004


  • Environmental Protection Act 1990


  • Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018


  • Landlord and Tenant Act 1985


  • Decent Homes Standard


  • Building Regulations 2010 (for heating, ventilation, and window replacement work)


In short, private and social landlords must act swiftly if damp or mould has been reported.


How Landlords Need to Respond


If tenants complain about damp or mould, landlords need to:


  • Act immediately – do not wait until medical evidence is produced, but treat the issue straight away.

  • Inspect and note – photograph and record the mould before starting work.

  • Dispose of mould safely – by trained personnel when needed.

  • Fix the cause – leaks, ventilation issues, or poor insulation.

  • Notify tenants – what is being done and expected timescales.


Follow up – call in at least 6 weeks later to ensure the problem hasn't come back.


Simply removing on-surface mould is not enough, underlying causes must be addressed.


Being Proactive


The guidance outlines that landlords should prevent issues, not react:

Put in place clear procedures for reporting and managing.


Regularly inspect stock.


Enhance ventilation, insulation, and heating where required.


Assist tenants in managing condensation (without abandoning responsibility for it).


Train staff and contractors to recognize health risks and react sensitively.


Build trust among tenants so that they can report early.


Conclusion


Damp and mould are not trivial irritations, but serious health hazards. The UK Government guidance is clear: landlords must act quickly, treat the underlying cause, and protect vulnerable tenants.


Providing warm, safe, and decent homes isn't merely a matter of law — it's an issue of dignity, justice, and health.

 
 
 

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