Mould and Mildew Guide for Tenants
The information in this guide has been taken from Bristol City Council’s Damp and Mould Leaflet 2023 and a guide prepared by the Centre for Sustainable Energy.
No one wants to live in a home with mold, whatever the cause. This guide will help you to prevent mould within your home, identify it when present, and treat it if neccesary.
In summary, if you have rising or penetrating damp, that is something you must report to your landlord or agent for them to resolve as there is most likely a problem with the property.
If you have mould caused by condensation, it is your responsibility as a tenant to prevent it and treat it if present. If you follow the steps in our guide and still have issues, then please speak with your landlord or agent.
Damp and Mould
Damp and mould issues are usually caused by either condensation or rising/penetrating damp.
Condensation
Condensation is caused when warm humid air comes into contact with a cold surface, such as windows and external walls. Without adequate ventilation, condensation can build up and result in mould growth.
Penetrating and rising damp
Penetrating damp is caused when water seeps into the building. This might be due to roof leaks, leaking pipes and plumbing, cracks in the external walls, among others.
Rising damp occurs when water rises from the ground and up into the building. If you suspect that the property has penetrating or rising damp this should be reported to the landlord as soon as possible, as these issues can cause serious damage if left untreated.
Examples of Penetrating Damp
Examples of Rising Damp
Examples of mould caused by condensation
How to avoid condensation and mould growth
Ventilate
Ventilation is vital to remove humid air from the property.
● Open windows regularly: If you have trickle vents keep these open.
● Use an extractor fan whilst cooking and bathing: If you don’t have an extractor fan try to keep a window open. Contact your landlord if your extractor fan is not working.
● Position furniture slightly away from walls: Increasing the amount of space behind furniture will improve airflow.
● Keep kitchen and bathroom doors closed: This will prevent humidity moving to other parts of the property.
Heat
● Heat your home: Keeping your home warm will reduce the number of cold surfaces where condensation could form.
Reduce moisture
● Dry clothes outside: If this isn’t possible, hang your washing in a bathroom with the
extractor fan on or window open.
● Regularly wipe condensation off surfaces
Remove mould
● Use an anti-fungal solution: If mould does grow on a surface, remove it using an anti-fungal solution. These are available in most major supermarkets, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
What should I do if there is no improvement or I cannot follow this advice?
If you have followed this advice and there is still significant damp and or mould growth you should contact your landlord or letting agent and ask them to investigate. If you’re a Purple Frog tenant, you can report a maintenance issue here.