As the colder months draw near, landlords and tenants face the annual challenge of preventing mould in their properties. Mould isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it can lead to serious health problems for tenants and cause significant property damage, potentially straining landlord-tenant relationships.
Following the introduction of Awaab’s Law and the newly passed Renters’ Rights Act, there’s been renewed attention on the responsibilities landlords have to ensure safe, healthy living conditions for tenants. Damp and mould are among the most common, and most serious,issues raised by renters, with new legislation reinforcing the need for prompt action and preventative maintenance.
According to Gov.uk: “Awaab’s Law will come into force for the social rented sector from 27 October 2025. From this point social landlords will have to address all emergency hazards and all damp and mould hazards that present a significant risk of harm to tenants to fixed timeframes.”
However, with some proactive measures, landlords can maintain healthy living spaces, preserve their properties, and ensure tenant safety, all of which contribute to more stable, long-term tenancies. The Landlord Insurance team here at Lansdown have created a guide on mould maintenance below.
Maintenance Tips for Preventing Mould
- Promote Proper Ventilation: Good ventilation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent mould. Encourage tenants to make regular use of extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, open windows when weather allows, and avoid blocking air vents. Where possible, landlords can consider installing trickle vents or humidity-controlled fans to make airflow more consistent throughout the property. Reducing excess moisture in the air is key to keeping damp and mould at bay.
- Regular Property Inspections: Winter is prime time for damp issues, so schedule property checks to look for condensation, leaks, or cold spots. Focus on corners, external walls, basements, and around windows. Early intervention prevents small issues from escalating into larger problems, and demonstrates care and compliance with the Renters’ Rights Act.
- Improve Insulation and Heating Efficiency: Proper insulation helps reduce condensation while lowering energy costs. Ensure lofts, cavity walls, and windows are adequately insulated, and check for draughts. Consider upgrading to humidity-controlled extractor fans or programmable thermostats to maintain steady temperatures and manage humidity levels.
- Prevent and Repair Leaks Promptly: Water from leaky roofs, gutters, or plumbing can quickly lead to damp patches and mould. Regularly inspect roof tiles, flashing, downpipes, and seals around baths and sinks. Prompt repairs help protect both property structure and tenant health.
- Support Tenant Awareness and Communication: Damp prevention works best when landlords and tenants work together. Provide clear guidance about simple habits that make a big difference, like covering pans while cooking, wiping condensation from windows, avoiding drying clothes on radiators, and reporting leaks early. Tip: A short “Winter Home Care” guide shared with tenants at the start of each cold season can prevent recurring issues and reduce maintenance costs.
- Treat Existing Mould Safely and Effectively: If mould appears, it’s essential to remove it safely and identify the underlying cause. Wipe surfaces with a fungicidal cleaner or diluted bleach, wear gloves, and dispose of cleaning materials after use. When redecorating, use mould-resistant paint or anti-fungal paste in high-risk areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
You can find more information in the Government’s guide, “Understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home,” available on Gov.uk.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
About Lansdown Insurance Brokers
Lansdown Insurance Brokers are specialists in Landlord Insurance and Block of Flats Insurance. We can provide policies tailored to your needs and offer guidance on the necessary cover required. Whether you’re a landlord, or property manager, call the team on 01242 524498 or email enquiries@lansdowninsurance.com.
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