Tackling Damp and Mould

On March 25, Michelle from The Smart Way to Rent attended a crucial workshop hosted by Thanet District Council, focusing on one of the biggest challenges in the private rented sector - damp and mould.

The event, led by Richard Hopkins CEnvH MCIEH, Private Sector Housing Manager at Thanet District Council, provided vital insights into the causes, health risks, and solutions for damp and mould in rental properties. With a growing emphasis on tenant well-being and legal responsibilities for landlords, the workshop aimed to equip housing professionals with the knowledge needed to proactively manage and prevent damp issues.

Key Takeaways from the Workshop

• Richard Hopkins outlined the Government guidance on tackling damp and mould, emphasising:
• Health risks and vulnerable groups most affected by damp conditions
• Regulations such as the Housing Act 2004 and Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards
• The importance of responding quickly and sensitively to reports of damp and mould
• Identifying and addressing the underlying causes rather than just surface-level fixes
• Encouraging proactive property condition monitoring
• Providing landlords with guidance, training, and funding options
• Supporting tenants with advice on damp prevention and energy-saving measures

 

Understanding the Causes of Damp

The workshop broke down the four main types of damp affecting buildings:

• Penetrating Damp - Caused by external structural issues such as roof leaks, cracked render, raised ground levels, and faulty drainage systems.
• Internal Water Leaks - Stemming from leaking pipes, defective storage tanks, central heating malfunctions, and internal drainage issues.
• Rising Damp - A result of groundwater moving up through walls, particularly in homes without an effective damp-proof course (DPC).
• Condensation - The most common cause of damp, formed when moisture in the air meets cold surfaces, often due to poor insulation, inadequate ventilation, and excessive moisture production from cooking, bathing, and drying clothes indoors.

 

Why This Matters

Damp and mould aren’t just unsightly - they pose serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions like asthma. With the private rental sector under increasing scrutiny, landlords and property managers must act swiftly to tackle damp problems and ensure tenants live in safe, healthy environments.

Michelle, representing The Smart Way to Rent, found the workshop incredibly valuable:

"As a property professional, it’s essential to stay informed about damp and mould issues. This workshop provided practical solutions and reinforced the importance of proactive maintenance. Ensuring tenants have warm, dry homes isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a responsibility."

 

Watch and Learn

Understanding condensation is key to tackling damp issues. Watch this informative video on how condensation forms and what can be done to prevent it:

 
The Way Forward

With growing Government focus on housing standards, landlords and letting agents must take a proactive approach. From regular property checks to educating tenants on ventilation and moisture control, collaboration is key to preventing damp and mould issues before they escalate.