Poorly designed housing and a lack of maintainance by the landlord can cause damp and mouldy conditions within the home. Mould does not arise from ‘lifestyle’ choices such as ‘too much bathing’ as government and other housing agencies have sometimes stated or implied. This is classic ‘victim blaming’.
Poverty also plays its part. When people are unable to properly heat their homes, it allows damp conditions to persist.
Landlord Duties
Responsibility for addressing mould lies squarely with the landlord. They should make the necessary alterations to the building to stop the problem recurring. For guidance on complaining to the landlord, see here.
If this is not happening despite a complaint being raised with the landlord, non-council tenants and shared owners can approach their council to intervene.
Council Enforcement
Local councils enforce standards in the private rented sector and social housing owned by housing associations. They have a duty to take enforcement action under the Housing Act 2004 if the hazard is considered severe enough.
Within many local councils, Environmental Health Practitioners will play an important role in the identification of hazards and supporting enforcement of housing standards. Councils can carry out works even the landlord fails to do so, and place a legal charge on the property.
To seek council enforcement:
First, we strongly advise taking clear photos of the mould or leaks, or even short films. Store these where you can be sure to find them again should you need evidence of the problem.
Second measure the amount of moisture in the air. Consider investing in a moisture metre which costs around £25-£30. Quote the digital reading in the complaint to the landlord, and to the council’s Private Rented Sector Officer when they do their investigation.
Third, create a log to make notes and record visits, events etc., since this is good evidence.After you’ve recorded the mould or leaks, copy the text from our template and replace the red text with the relevant details:
Finally, download the SHAC – Template Text – Council – Mould Letter and send it to your council, with a copy to your landlord.
You can find more information on the Government website here.
Cleaning the Mould
While you wait for the issue to be addressed, we have a briefing that can be downloaded or read online with advice on cleaning the mould safely. The resource has been developed by the University of Manchester with help from SHAC members, and we are grateful to everyone who participated in this project.
Download the leaflet here.