Councils and letting agents join forces to tackle damp and mould in the PRS

Councils and letting agents join forces to tackle damp and mould in the PRS

0:01 AM, 7th November 2024, About 2 hours ago

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Letting agents and councils are teaming up to tackle damp and mould in the private rented sector with a new campaign.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council, alongside Hull City Council, has launched the Healthy Homes campaign to raise awareness of the risks of untreated damp and mould.

Backed by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, 21 letting agents have signed up for the initiative.

The campaign encourages tenants to report issues directly to their agent, to allow damp and mould problems to be addressed early.

Tenants must tell landlords about mould

Councillor Paul Drake Davis, Hull City Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration and housing said: “Whether you are a landlord or a tenant we want to help you keep your homes healthy.

“Damp and mould can affect anyone’s home and must be tackled as soon as possible to safeguard people’s health and also to minimise damage to the property. If you’re a tenant, you must tell your landlord about damp and mould problems as soon as you notice them, and the sooner they will be resolved.”

The Healthy Homes campaign says landlords have a legal obligation to take steps to address damp and mould issues, and failure to do so can result in enforcement action from the local council.

This is despite a recent survey by the Property Ombudsman, which reveals that many letting agents believe damp and mould are caused by tenants.

Avoid adverse health affects

The campaign also offers practical advice, such as keeping properties well-ventilated, using extractor fans when cooking or showering, wiping down condensation promptly, and drying clothes outside when possible.

Councillor Lyn Healing, East Riding of Yorkshire cabinet member for communities and public protection says living in a home with damp and mould can have a serious effect on people’s health.

She said: “Damp and mould are serious issues, and it is imperative that tenants and landlords take action to avoid adverse health effects.

“I encourage anyone concerned about damp and mould to report it to their letting agents or landlord.”


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