'Tis the season: TDS's guide to tackling condensation, damp, and mould

Winter weather has already made an appearance in most parts of the country, with a distinct chill in the air.

As we approach big coat weather, you or your tenants may notice more condensation in the home.

Condensation is the appearance of water on cold surfaces. It occurs where moist air comes into contact with air, or a surface, which is at a lower temperature.

It is really important to tackle the issue promptly once you are made aware of it, because if left untreated, condensation has the potential to lead to mould growth – a serious health hazard.

In fact, the issue of mould growth is so serious that back in September this year, the Government published new guidance for landlords and housing providers, on damp and mould in homes.

This Government guidance was released following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, following prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s housing association home.

Landlords are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the guidance, which provides comprehensive instructions on how to address damp and mould in the property. 

Of particular note, the guidance explicitly states that tenants should not be blamed for damp and mould growth in the property.

Instead, it is the responsibility of landlords to identify and address the underlying causes of the problem, such as structural issues or inadequate ventilation.

TDS guide on damp, mould and condensation 

If you are searching for further guidance on how to tackle damp and mould in the home, NRLA deposit partner TDS has produced a brand new guide for landlords on this important subject.

This guide explains the different types of damp and mould, some of the housing conditions that can lead to damp and mould, legal standards and compliance measures for landlords.

It also contains practical advice on how to tackle condensation and safely remove mould, if the amount is small enough that it doesn’t require a professional qualified clearer to do this.

To download the new guide, click here.

Find out more about TDS here.