Damp and mould: What tenants should report and landlords should act on

That’s why the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 will extend Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector, requiring landlords to fix such health hazards within strict timeframes.

While this legal change isn’t expected until 2027 or later, it’s a good idea for everybody – both landlords and tenants – to know the best ways to spot the early signs of mould and damp, and deal with them before they cause problems. Here, we share practical information.  

Early warning signs of damp and mould

Common causes include condensation, leaks and ventilation problems. Ask yourself the following:

• Musty smells – is there an earthy or damp smell when you walk into a room or open a cupboard?
• Clammy air – does a room consistently feel uncomfortably warm and wet?
• Excess condensation – do water droplets or pooled water collect on glass and window sills every morning?
• Discoloured patches – are there brown, yellow or dark water stains on walls and ceilings?
• Microscopic growth – are tiny black, green or white patches of mould growing on window frames or in room corners?
• Paintwork issues – is the paint cracking or blistering? Is your wallpaper lifting at the seams?
• Health reactions – is anyone, say, sneezing or coughing more when they’re inside the property?

When tenants should report damp and mould

If you’re worried about mould or damp, report the issue to your landlord straightaway. Take photos of the specific areas of mould or the cause, such as a broken pipe; write down the date and any other key details; and tell your landlord if anyone in the property is experiencing health difficulties as a result. This will help your landlord understand the nature and severity of the problem, plus create clear documentation.

By reacting promptly, you can stop the issue getting worse and causing further damage.

How landlords should respond

Landlords are legally responsible for addressing damp and mould in a property (various regulations include the Housing Act 2004). They shouldn’t dismiss a problem as caused by a tenant’s lifestyle or wait for medical proof. Instead, they must act quickly to:

• Respond to the tenant’s complaint
• Visit the property to identify the issue and what is likely causing it
• Take their own photos to document the problem
• Carry out the appropriate remedial work or hire a qualified professional to do so
• Follow up after a few weeks to make sure the problem hasn’t returned

Although there’s currently no set timeframe for fixing damp and mould, you should take prompt action, especially if a tenant has health concerns.

Good communication and record-keeping will help to avoid disputes. Share details with your tenants about your plans and listen to any worries they have. This will foster better relationships and reduce the likelihood of your tenants escalating issues with the council – and the risk of financial penalties and legal action.

Here’s more government info about mould and damp in homes.

Final thoughts

While regulations are already in place, the government is bringing in stricter rules for maintaining property conditions, and landlords must stay up to date with evolving requirements. If you’ve got any questions, speak to your local Winkworth lettings team for advice on maintaining a safe, compliant and well-managed rental property.