Damp & Mould: Your Duties as a Private Landlord
Even before Awaab's Law extends to private rentals, you already have legal obligations around damp and mould. Don't wait for a complaint — act now.
Your Current Legal Obligations
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 already requires private landlords to ensure their properties are fit to live in at the start of and throughout a tenancy. Damp and mould that poses a risk to health is a clear breach of this duty.
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) also gives local councils the power to inspect properties and issue improvement notices where damp or mould creates a Category 1 hazard — the most serious level.
While Awaab's Law currently applies to social housing, the government has signalled its intention to extend similar timeframe obligations to the private rented sector. Getting ahead of this now protects your tenants and your investment.
"Awaab's Law is coming for private landlords"
The Renters' Rights Bill, currently progressing through Parliament, is expected to introduce Awaab's Law-style timeframes for private landlords. Now is the time to get your properties assessed and any issues resolved.
The Risks of Ignoring Damp & Mould
Failing to address damp and mould in your rental property isn't just a moral issue — it carries serious legal and financial consequences.
Rent repayment orders
Tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for a rent repayment order if you fail to maintain a habitable property.
Legal action
Tenants can sue for damages caused by damp and mould, including health impacts and damage to personal belongings.
Improvement notices
Local councils can issue improvement notices requiring you to fix hazards within a set timeframe — with fines for non-compliance.
Property devaluation
Untreated damp causes structural damage that significantly reduces the value of your investment property.
What You Should Do Now
- Respond promptly to any tenant report of damp or mould
- Arrange a professional damp survey within 14 days
- Carry out all necessary repairs without unreasonable delay
- Keep written records of all reports and actions taken
- Address the root cause — not just the visible symptoms
South East Damp Experts provide professional damp surveys and full treatment services across Essex and Suffolk. We work with private landlords to identify the root cause of damp, carry out lasting repairs, and provide the written documentation you need to demonstrate compliance.
Protect Your Tenants & Your Investment
Book a professional damp survey today. We cover all of Essex and Suffolk and can usually attend within 48 hours.