Landlord Mould Responsibility: Advice for Landlords and Tenants

When it comes to mould in properties, it’s difficult to know who has the responsibility for dealing with these issues. Tenants will often turn to landlords to fix the issue, but without the support of the tenants in everyday life, it will be difficult to overcome this issue.

In this guide, we’re exploring the causes of mould in properties, why it’s vital to get this under control, and who is ultimately responsible. We’ll also be looking at ways that landlords and tenants can work together to limit the risk of mould developing and prevent it from returning.

What causes mould in properties?

Mould is caused by a buildup of dampness or moisture. It can be the result of a structural problem with the property, or it could be the result of how the property is used. Potential causes of excess damp in a home include:

• Rising damp that works its way up the walls from the foundations
• Penetrating damp from the ground in below ground rooms
• Leaks from the roof or faulty gutters
• Plumbing leaks in the property that might be concealed
• Leaking seals around baths, showers and sinks
• Condensation from everyday life, such as cooking or showering
• Poor ventilation
• Failing to heat the property in winter, allowing it to become cold
• Clutter and bulky furniture making airflow difficult

As you can see, the responsibility for addressing mould that arises because of damp conditions could lie with either the tenant or the landlord. In general, if it’s a structural issue, the landlord needs to take action, while issues related to how the property is used will fall on the tenant.

If either the landlord or the tenant is unwilling to address the issue, then there are still steps the other party can take to help limit the issue until a resolution can be found. Let’s look at the risks of mould in more detail.

What is black mould and why is it so dangerous?

Black mould is a type of fungus that thrives in damp conditions or moisture-damaged environments. It could be the Stachybotrys chartarum, Alternaria, or Cladosporium strands of fungus. These often appear as black, green or grey spores on walls, ceilings, flooring, furniture and your possessions.

The black mould spreads through spores, which can spread through the air. When airborne, these can cause breathing problems and skin problems for residents. They also trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

Some types of mould are known to release mycotoxins, which are even more harmful. These cause even more severe symptoms and have been known to cause death for sensitive individuals. This is why mould in rental properties is often treated with extreme caution, as landlords want to ensure that they aren’t allowing tenants to live in unsafe conditions.

Signs you have mould in your property

Mould is nearly always seen alongside a damp problem, since the mould will need excess moisture in order to be able to thrive and spread. Moisture could come from structural issues, or it could be the result of activities in the house. Common signs of mould in a property include:

• A musty smell that won’t go away
• Peeling wallpaper or crumbling paintwork
• Condensation
• Black, green or grey spot on the walls, floor or ceiling
• Warped walls
• Dark tile grout and bath seals
• Rotten skirting boards or warped floorboards

Tenants might not be attuned to these issues, so it’s important to carry out regular inspections to prevent problems from building up. Likewise, if tenants raise these issues with the landlord, it’s important to take quick action to help avoid further issues. If there is a mould problem in the home, this indicates that there is also a damp problem, which could lead to widespread problems if it is left untreated.

What can tenants do to prevent mould?

While tenants might not have much control over structural repairs, there are steps they can take to help avoid mould building up in their home.

– Regular cleaning will help to identify problem areas and raise issues with the landlord if required. Tenants should deep clean at least twice per year, ideally in autumn and spring, as this will clear the home following winter and then prepare for the colder months.

– The property needs to be heated properly to prevent areas from becoming cold and attracting moisture. If tenants avoid putting on the heating because of the cost of bills, this could cause damage, while also creating unpleasant living conditions.

– The property needs to be properly ventilated, even in the winter. This could mean opening windows to let moist air outside in the morning and while cooking or after showering. This will help to keep the property warm, as moisture will make the space feel colder. Shock ventilating a room doesn’t “let all of the heat out” as you might think, but actually helps to keep the room warm.

– Moisture traps, dehumidifiers and extraction fans should be used to help manage moisture in the home. Something as simple as cleaning the filter on your extractor fan can help to make it more effective.

– Properly ventilated tumble driers should be used instead of air drying clothes in the home. If you have to use clothes airers, pair this with a dehumidifier to speed up drying times and to capture excess moisture.

– Avoiding excess clutter and keeping the space clean will help to improve airflow, which can help tenants to avoid mould that is caused as a result of everyday use.

What can landlords do to prevent mould?

If there is a persistent mould or damp problem in the home, it is the landlord’s responsibility to investigate further. A damp proofing company can survey the home and determine if there is a structural damp issue, or if the issue comes from everyday use.

• If the issue is structural, you might have to look at methods such as basement tanking or damp proof plastering to help prevent the issue.
• If there is inadequate ventilation, you might have to look at installing extraction fans in key areas like the kitchen and bathroom.
• If there are issues with the windows, this will need to be addressed. The same goes for leaks caused by plumbing, bath seals or broken tiles on the roof. In short, if the issue requires a handyman and not just a change of how the property is used, then it’s the landlord’s responsibility.

How can landlords and tenants work together?

In an ideal world, both landlords and tenants would work together to ensure that properties remain free from mould, dry and comfortable. 

It requires good communication between tenants and landlords to ensure that problems are raised before they become more widespread. Landlords also need to act quickly, so that tenants will feel that their voice matters. 

Tenants might also need to be helpful when it comes to arranging repairs, as this might require them to be around to allow access. It’s important for both tenants and landlords to remember that everyone benefits when mould is brought under control.

The tenant can enjoy a more pleasant place to live, and the landlord will enjoy the peace of mind knowing that their property is being protected against more widespread structural damage.