Letting agents attribute rising damp and mould issues in rental properties primarily to tenants’ actions, according to a recent survey.
A survey conducted by the Property Ombudsman reveals that many letting agents believe tenant behaviours, such as drying clothes on radiators and failing to use extractor fans while cooking, are significant contributors to condensation, which leads to damp and mould. These findings come as the Ombudsman reports receiving over 1,000 enquiries related to damp and mould in rental properties.
Ongoing Issues in Rental Properties
The survey indicates that 42% of lettings businesses are currently dealing with ongoing damp and mould problems in their properties. Despite this, 72% of agents expressed confidence in resolving these issues promptly. Only 9% of agents surveyed doubted landlords’ ability to recognize such problems.
Most agents agreed that when structural issues, rather than tenant behaviour, are the root cause of damp and mould, landlords should refrain from renting out properties until the necessary repairs have been made.
The Property Ombudsman revealed that in 2023, over 1,000 damp-related enquiries were referred to their office, leading to 200 cases and more than £36,000 awarded to tenants.
Guidance for Tenants and Landlords
In response to the ongoing concerns, the Property Ombudsman has issued updated guidance for tenants and landlords on how to manage and prevent damp and mould. Renters are advised to ensure proper ventilation, such as opening windows and using extractor fans, and to take preventive measures, including wiping away condensation and using anti-fungal treatments.
For landlords, separate guidance has been produced, particularly addressing construction and property defects. The Ombudsman recommends that landlords consider hiring specialists to fully assess the root causes of damp issues.
Collaboration Key to Prevention
Rebecca Marsh, the Property Ombudsman, emphasized the complexity of the issue, stating, “Condensation, damp, and mould are interlinked and caused by a variety of factors—environmental, structural, and behavioural. However, it’s clear that collaboration between tenants, landlords, and agents is crucial in preventing these problems.”
Marsh added that the organisation has published easy-to-follow guides to help all parties better understand the causes and symptoms of damp, how to report issues, and the health risks associated with living in such conditions.
Government Plans to Strengthen Tenant Protections
The Property Ombudsman welcomed the government’s proposed reforms under the Renters’ Rights Bill, which includes the application of “Awaab’s Law” to the private rental sector and the introduction of a Decent Homes Standard. These reforms aim to ensure that rented homes meet higher standards, protecting tenants from the potentially devastating effects of poorly maintained properties.