What To Do If Your Landlord Ignores Damp and Mould in England and Wales
Written by the Housing Repair Help Editorial Team and reviewed by our claims team — a trading style of Reclaim Experts Ltd, an FCA authorised claims management company (FRN 1030701), Innovation Centre, 49 Oxford Street, Leicester, LE1 5XY. About us and our editorial standards.
Published 10 August 2025. Last reviewed and updated 15 April 2026.
Damp and mould are among the most common housing issues reported by tenants across England and Wales. Left unresolved, they can cause damage to property and may affect the health of those living in the home. If you've raised the issue with your landlord and nothing has been done, there are steps you can take.
Signs of Serious Damp or Mould
Not all condensation is cause for concern, but there are warning signs that suggest a more serious problem:
Mould Growth
Black, green, or white mould on walls, ceilings, or around windows
Musty Smell
A persistent smell, even after cleaning
Peeling Surfaces
Peeling or bubbling wallpaper and flaking paint
Wet Patches
Watermarks on walls and ceilings
Persistent Condensation
Condensation that doesn't clear, even with ventilation
These signs may indicate structural damp, rising damp, or penetrating damp — all generally the landlord's responsibility.
Reporting Repair Issues to Your Landlord
The first step is to notify your landlord or letting agent in writing. This creates a record of your complaint.
Put your complaint in writing
Include key details
Keep copies
Follow up
Keeping Evidence
Good evidence is essential if you need to escalate the matter. Here's what to document:
Photos & Videos
Take dated photos of all affected areas, including close-ups of mould growth
Written Correspondence
Save all emails, letters, and text messages with your landlord
Medical Records
Keep a note of GP visits for symptoms related to damp
Repair Logs
Note dates when someone attended to inspect or repair, and the outcome
Contacting Your Local Council
If your landlord fails to act, contact your local council's environmental health department. They have the power to inspect the property and, if necessary, serve an improvement notice on the landlord requiring them to carry out repairs.
You can usually find your council's environmental health team by searching your council's website or calling their main number.
Seeking Further Support
If the problem persists despite reporting it, additional options are available:
Citizens Advice
Free guidance on your rights as a tenant
Shelter
Housing charity that provides advice and support
Housing Disrepair Claim
You may be eligible to seek repairs and compensation
Living with damp or mould your landlord won't fix?
You may be able to make a claim. It only takes a few minutes to check.
Discover More About Housing Disrepair ClaimsFCA Regulated Claims Management Company FRN: 1030701
Takes 5 minutes. No obligation.
Related Guides
This article provides general information about housing issues in England and Wales and does not constitute legal advice. Legal services may be provided by independent solicitors where appropriate.