It is the time of year where damp and mould becomes the most prevalent, as the hot air from inside your property meets the cold air from outside. Many residents affected by this may not know what to do, so I've put this guide together to help you.
Your landlord should take action to fix your issue if:
It is caused by a repair problem
It is affecting your health and safety
You're expected to take measures to heat your home properly and ventilate so that damp doesn't build up, however your landlord shouldn't make requests that aren't reasonable such as drying your clothes outside if you have no outside space.
Activities such as cooking, showering and drying clothes create moisture which can lead to condensation. Here are some steps you can take to prevent damp building up.
Close doors when cooking or showering
Use extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen when showering and cooking
Leave a gap between furniture and external walls
Keep your home evenly heated - if possible
Dry clothes outdoors or use a vented tumble dryer
Open your bedroom windows for 5 to 10 minutes every day
Cover your pans when cooking
Tell your landlord about any problems with damp and mould and inform them of any:
damage to furniture
repairs required
impact on your safety and your health
Your landlord must organise an inspection and carry out repairs within a reasonable time depending on the seriousness of the issue. Repairs they could make include:
Providing a dehumidifier
Installing ventilation in your home
Improving the insulation of your home
Shelter has put together a guide on what to do if your landlord won't carry out the repairs or take steps to address the damp problem.
If you cannot use certain rooms or you are suffering breathing difficulties, your home could be unfit to live in. Your local Council could compel your landlord to take action - even if your tenancy is not covered by the rules on unfit homes.
Your landlord must carry out works if an Enforcement Notice is served because your health and safety is affected.
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