How to Handle Damp and Mould This Winter: A Landlord's Guide

Thu 12 Nov 2026

A damp patch in a flat or mould behind furniture in a house can have several possible causes. Leaks, cold surfaces, ventilation faults and heating problems all deserve consideration.

For landlords, the priority is to understand what is happening and organise an effective response. Assuming the tenant simply needs to open a window can delay the repair the property actually needs.

What should a landlord do when a tenant reports mould?

Make sure tenants know who to contact and what information will help. Ask where the issue is occurring, when it appeared and whether it worsens after rain or particular activities. Photographs can help you arrange the right inspection, but should not become a condition for taking a report seriously.

Government guidance advises landlords to assess reports urgently, address underlying causes and act promptly where health concerns are raised.

Investigate the source

Arrange an inspection appropriate to the severity of the report. Depending on the findings, checks may include:

Roof coverings, flashing, gutters and downpipes.
Plumbing leaks and water entering around openings.
Bathroom and kitchen extraction.
Heating performance and cold areas within rooms.
Insulation and ventilation arrangements.

Where the cause is uncertain, use a suitably qualified professional. Treating visible mould without dealing with the moisture source can leave the problem recurring.

What if the issue involves a block of flats?

If a shared roof, external wall or communal pipe may be involved, contact the freeholder or block manager promptly. Record the report reference, request a timescale and keep following up.

At the same time, assess what action can be taken within the flat and keep the tenant informed. A building-management referral should form part of your response plan.

Carry out a winter maintenance review

A planned visit is an opportunity to identify issues before they become harder to manage. Ask your contractor to check vulnerable external areas and test ventilation and heating equipment.

Share practical advice with tenants on using the ventilation and heating provided. Make that advice specific to the property, and invite them to report equipment that is broken, noisy or ineffective. Guidance should support repairs and investigation, rather than replace them.

Where does Awaab's Law fit in?

The Government is consulting on extending Awaab's Law to private rented tenancies in England, including how fixed response times should operate. As at November 2026, the proposed private-sector deadlines remain under consultation.

Landlords already have repair and fitness responsibilities. There is no reason to wait for new deadlines before improving how damp and mould reports are handled.

Common questions about damp and mould in rented homes

Is condensation always the tenant's responsibility?

No. Condensation can be connected to ventilation, insulation, heating and the condition of the building. Consider how the home performs as well as how it is used. Advice about everyday moisture should accompany a proper assessment of any defects.

Can I paint over mould between tenancies?

Painting over a patch does not establish why it appeared or prevent it returning. Investigate the moisture source, arrange appropriate treatment and check that the underlying repair has worked before relying on cosmetic redecoration.

What should I do if the tenant cannot provide access?

Keep communicating, explain the proposed inspection and offer reasonable appointment options. Record your attempts and seek advice promptly if access remains unresolved, particularly where there may be a serious hazard. Do not simply close the report.

The Government's damp and mould guidance for housing providers sets out a practical approach to assessing reports and addressing causes.

Keep a record and follow up

For each report, record the date, inspection findings, work instructed and tenant updates. Agree a follow-up check to establish whether the repair has worked and whether any further investigation is needed.

For landlords with several properties across Benfleet, Rayleigh and Rochford, a consistent process helps prevent a report being overlooked between contractors, agents and block managers.

For help coordinating winter maintenance and property management, contact Williams & Donovan's Lettings & Property Management team on 01702 200666 or email [email protected].