Our inspections and reports are aligned with current UK housing legislation and standards, including:

Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018

This law requires landlords to ensure that rented homes are fit for human habitation at the start of and throughout the tenancy. Properties affected by serious damp or mould may be deemed unfit, particularly where conditions pose a risk to health. Tenants may take legal action if landlords fail to address these issues.

Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 – Section 11

Under this Act, landlords are legally responsible for keeping the structure and exterior of the property in repair. This includes walls, roofs, drains, guttering, and other elements that may cause penetrating damp or water ingress. Where damp arises from structural defects, responsibility lies with the landlord.

Housing Act 2004 & Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)

Local authorities assess housing conditions using the HHSRS. Damp and mould are recognised as Category 1 or Category 2 hazards where they present a risk to occupants’ health. Severe cases can result in enforcement action against landlords.

Decent Homes Standard

The Decent Homes Standard requires properties to be free from serious health and safety hazards, including damp and mould, and to be in a reasonable state of repair. While currently mandatory for social housing, similar standards are being extended to the private rented sector.

Awaab’s Law

Awaab’s Law strengthens protections for tenants by placing strict legal timeframes on landlords to investigate and remedy damp and mould hazards. The law recognises damp and mould as serious health risks and requires prompt action, clear communication, and written outcomes following inspections.

Helpful Guidance for Landlords & Tenants

For general advice, rights, and responsibilities, we recommend visiting:

www.gov.uk

(Search: “damp and mould in rented homes”)

This provides official government guidance on housing standards, landlord duties, tenant rights, and health considerations.