Condensation and the resulting mould growth is a common issue in rental properties, and it's important for both landlords and tenants to understand their shared responsibilities in preventing and addressing this problem.
First and foremost, tenants have a duty to take reasonable care of the property, as outlined in standard tenancy agreements. This includes properly ventilating and heating the home to avoid excess moisture buildup that can lead to condensation and ultimately, mould. Tenants should make sure to use extractor fans or open windows during activities like cooking, bathing, and drying laundry (even in winter...especially in winter).
Any condensation that does form on surfaces should be promptly wiped away to prevent mould growth or regular use a anti-mould cleaner to ensure it does not take hold.
By being proactive and diligent in these basic practices, tenants play a critical role in maintaining the condition of their rental home. Neglecting these responsibilities can allow condensation and mould to take hold, potentially causing damage and even health hazards. So as a Tenant you have a duty of care on the property as per your tenancy agreement.
However, while tenants must do their part, landlords also have important legal obligations when it comes to damp and mould. As per the Housing Act 2004 and Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords are ultimately responsible for ensuring their rental properties are safe and free of hazards like damp and mould.
This means landlords should make sure properties are in good condition before letting them, with adequate ventilation, insulation and heating systems. During the tenancy, landlords must promptly investigate and address any reports of damp or mould, making necessary repairs to the building fabric and remediating mould growth.
New government guidance published in September 2022 reaffirms that landlords must treat damp and mould issues seriously and are responsible for identifying and resolving the root causes, which may include structural defects or lack of ventilation.
In summary, preventing condensation and mould in rental properties is a shared duty:
- Tenants must ventilate and heat the property with care to avoid moisture buildup.
- Using the extractor fan or opening windows after showering to properly air the bathroom
- Drying clothes outside where possible
- Use of a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the room
- Covering pans when cooking
- Wiping down windows and sills
By understanding and upholding their respective responsibilities, landlords and tenants can work together to keep rental homes safe and free of costly and hazardous condensation and mould issues.
As a responsible agent we are always vigilant when it comes to mould, condensation left can turn into mould spots and if not treated into mould patches.
Note that we are not talking about things like Damp and Penetrating damp which is coming from the outside, which is the Landlord's and Agent's responsibility to address.
So the best thing is to work with us as agents so we can resolve this without the need for contractors and added costs to you and your landlord. By far the majority of instances are addressed with some simple steps.
If you have questions feel free to contact us and we'll be happy to work with you in the first instance to resolve the issues.
Ezytrac Maintenance Team