Damp and mould frequently asked questions

Damp is the build-up of moisture in a home. Damp happens when there are leaks, poor property condition, or other problems.

Damp affects building materials such as walls, floors, and ceilings. It can affect home furnishings and belongings too. Damaging things like carpets, curtains, wallpaper, furniture, and clothes.

Common types of damp include rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation.

When damp is present in a building it can lead to the growth of mould and other microorganisms.

Yes, if left untreated. Damp and mould can produce allergens, irritants, and spores which can harm a person’s health.

Damp and mould can cause ill health in anyone. However, people with underlying health conditions and weakened immune systems can be at greater risk.

Gov.uk have guidance on the health risks.

Understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

If you notice damp or mould in your home, you should report it to your landlord straight away. Promptly reporting the issue will enable the landlord to investigate the cause of the damp and mould and hopefully treat the cause of the issue

Your landlord should arrange to visit the property to investigate. If you feel unwell and have noticed damp and mould in your home, you should seek advice from your healthcare provider straight away.

Some household mould can be managed by wiping the surface and ensuring suitable ventilation to a room where there is moisture present.

If you smell mould but cannot see it, it could be hiding behind wallpaper, carpets, pipes, furniture, or inside heating and ventilation units.

Do not try to remove these yourself. Pulling up carpets or wallpaper can release mould spores.

Report the problem to your landlord so a professional can deal with it safely.

Act quickly if you find damp or mould. Fast action helps stop damage and prevents it spreading through the building.

Landlords should follow their policy for dealing with damp and mould, arrange an inspection by a qualified surveyor, and check if anyone in the household has health conditions that make them more vulnerable.

You can find best practice guidance in our Spotlight report and Centre for Learning training.

Yes. Landlords should have a policy that says how they will monitor their homes and deal with problems quickly and effectively.  

Landlords need to understand their properties and decide if they require a dedicated strategy to tackle urgent issues.  

Landlords should take a proactive approach to damp and mould. Our Spotlight report on damp and mould sets out recommendations. 

We would always recommend putting things right as quickly as possible.

It is for landlords to determine if they feel acting will prejudice any legal case, but we say in the Follow up: Spotlight on damp and mould report not to hide behind legal proceedings.

So, if you know there’s an issue that needs rectifying - act quickly. Do not wait for legal proceedings to finish.

Focus on what you will do and what you need from the resident. Create a joint plan instead of placing blame.

In most cases, the problem involves more than lifestyle, so work together to find solutions.

If your investigation shows lifestyle and not the property are causing the problem, explain this clearly. Use a supportive, practical tone. Avoid accusations and give suggestions that are helpful and easy to follow.

Our Centre for Learning offers a range of training on damp and mould.

You can find out more about our Centre for Learning webinars, reports, and online workshops on the damp and mould page on our website.

Member landlords can also log in to the Learning Hub to view the training on responding to reports of damp and mould.