Mould that keeps coming back.

Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp conditions where excess moisture is present. Although it is often visible as black, green or white patches, it is usually a symptom of another issue affecting the property rather than the underlying problem itself. Common underlying causes include damp, condensation, water leaks, roof defects, plumbing problems, poor ventilation and structural defects. Identifying the cause of mould is often the first step towards resolving the issue permanently.

Condensation

Condensation occurs when warm air comes into contact with colder surfaces, creating moisture that can encourage mould growth.

Damp

Persistent damp caused by structural defects, water penetration or rising damp may create conditions that allow mould to develop.

Leaking pipes

Hidden plumbing leaks may result in damp walls, ceilings or flooring where mould subsequently appears.

Roof leaks

Water entering through damaged roofs or defective guttering may lead to mould developing in ceilings, loft spaces and upper walls.

Poor ventilation

Bathrooms, kitchens and other poorly ventilated rooms may experience increased moisture levels if adequate ventilation is not available.

Council landlords and housing associations have legal responsibilities to maintain certain parts of the properties they own and manage. In England, those obligations arise from section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, and homes must be fit for human habitation under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. Whether a landlord is legally responsible for mould will depend upon the cause of the problem, the landlord’s repairing obligations, whether the landlord has been informed of the issue, and whether the landlord has had a reasonable opportunity to investigate and carry out appropriate repairs.

Simply cleaning or repainting mould without addressing the underlying cause may not resolve the problem permanently. Each case should be considered according to its individual circumstances.

What to do if you discover mould

If mould develops in your home, it is generally advisable to notify your landlord as soon as possible and keep a record of when the issue was reported. Photograph the affected areas and continue taking photographs if the mould spreads or returns, retain copies of repair reports, emails, letters and appointment details, keep evidence of any damaged belongings, and cooperate with reasonable requests for access to inspections or repairs while keeping a record of all visits.

Can mould affect your health?

Living with mould may affect some people more than others. Young children, older adults and individuals with certain respiratory conditions may be particularly sensitive to poor indoor air quality. If you believe mould is affecting your health or the health of members of your household, you should seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional.

Damage caused by mould

Persistent mould may affect more than the appearance of your home. It may cause damage to walls and ceilings, wallpaper and paintwork, carpets and flooring, furniture, clothing, curtains and other personal belongings. Keeping records of any damage may be helpful if legal advice is later required.

Can you claim compensation?

In some circumstances, tenants may be entitled to seek compensation where a landlord has failed to comply with its legal repairing obligations. Whether compensation may be available will depend upon factors such as the cause of the mould, the length of time the problem continued, whether the landlord had been notified, the effect on the tenant and members of the household, and any damage to belongings or inconvenience suffered. Every claim is assessed individually.

We understand how difficult it can be to live in a property affected by persistent mould. We begin by reviewing the history of the repair issues, considering the circumstances of your tenancy and advising whether legal action may be appropriate. Where suitable, we assist tenants in pursuing claims aimed at ensuring repairs are completed and, where the law allows, seeking compensation for losses arising from the disrepair. Our advice is practical, straightforward and tailored to your individual circumstances.

Why choose Jefferson Clarke?

• Specialist housing disrepair advice
• Clear explanations of tenants’ legal rights
• Practical legal guidance
• Professional communication throughout your claim
• A supportive and approachable service

Mould is often a symptom of damp or leaks — or return to our Housing Disrepair overview.