Fighting Back Against Mould and Damp: A Tenant’s Guide Under Awaab’s Law

Introduction

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Mould and damp are more than just unsightly nuisances—they pose serious health risks, particularly for families with young children or vulnerable individuals. Awaab’s Law has strengthened tenant protections, especially for those living in council or housing association properties, by imposing strict deadlines and responsibilities on landlords to address these issues.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to report mould and damp, how to gather evidence, and when to escalate matters if your landlord drags their feet. By understanding the new legal framework, you’ll be better equipped to ensure that your home remains a safe, healthy space to live.

1. Recognising the Signs of Mould and Damp

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Early detection is key:

• Visible Growth: Black or green patches on walls, ceilings, or tiles.
• Musty Odour: A persistent, damp smell that doesn’t go away with ventilation.
• Condensation and Peeling Wallpaper: Excess moisture can cause wallpaper to bubble or paint to flake.
• Health Symptoms: If anyone in your household experiences worsening respiratory issues, it’s time to act.

Identifying mould and damp early on gives you a head start on resolving the issue before it gets worse.

2. Documenting the Problem

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Before reporting, gather evidence:

• Photographs and Videos: Take clear, dated images of affected areas.
• Records of Health Problems: Note any health issues linked to poor indoor air quality.
• Communication Logs: Keep a record of all correspondence with your landlord about the issue.

This documentation will strengthen your case if you need to escalate the matter later.

3. Reporting to Your Landlord

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Under Awaab’s Law, landlords have tight deadlines to address serious health and safety hazards:

• Submit a Formal Complaint: Notify your landlord in writing, detailing the extent of the mould or damp.
• Include Evidence: Attach photographs and mention any health effects you’ve observed.
• Request a Timeline: Ask when and how they plan to address the issue.

Your landlord should respond promptly and arrange an inspection or repairs. Awaab’s Law means they can no longer ignore or delay such complaints indefinitely.

4. Escalating the Issue

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If your landlord fails to act:

• Follow the Complaints Procedure: Each housing provider should have a formal complaints process—use it.
• Contact the Ombudsman: If complaints get nowhere, consider contacting the Housing Ombudsman for further investigation.
• Involve Local Authorities: Councils have enforcement powers to ensure landlords comply with Awaab’s Law and other housing regulations.

Tenants now have clearer, more enforceable rights, increasing the likelihood of a timely resolution.

5. Knowing Your Rights and Options

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Awaab’s Law mandates that landlords meet strict deadlines when addressing serious hazards. Failure to comply can lead to penalties and enforcement actions. Understanding these rights puts you in a stronger position to ensure swift action, safer living conditions, and potentially even compensation if your landlord’s negligence caused harm.

Conclusion

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Awaab’s Law marks a significant step forward for council and housing association tenants, ensuring that issues like mould and damp must be dealt with promptly and effectively. By recognising the signs, gathering evidence, reporting correctly, and escalating when necessary, you can help guarantee that your home remains a healthy environment.

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