What should you do if you have mould in your home?

Living in rented accommodation often brings uncertainty about responsibilities and liabilities, leaving tenants unsure of where they stand.

Howells shares advice on staying warm during the cold weather and understanding your rights when faced with unsafe living conditions:

1. Boiler Check-Up: Keep the Heat On!

Mark Woloshak, Head of Litigation at Howells Solicitors, emphasises the importance of checking your boiler for proper functionality.

Don’t get left in the cold—report any issues to your landlord as soon as possible.

2. Frozen Pipe Alert: Defrost to Avoid Disaster!

Frozen pipes spell trouble: burst pipes, water damage, mould, and sky-high utility bills.

Don’t let the freeze wreak havoc—keep the heat up to prevent icy disasters.

3. Damp Dangers Lurk: Spot, Stop, and Save!

Dampness is stealthy but destructive. Mark warns tenants to be on the lookout for signs of damp, which not only affect comfort but also inflate energy bills and cause mould growth.

Stay vigilant and keep those personal items safe from damp.

Mark Woloshak, Head of Litigation at Howells Solicitors said: “The landlord is responsible for addressing maintenance concerns, and a fast response is vital, especially if there’s a significant risk to the tenant’s health and safety.

“We strongly advise tenants to maintain open communication with their estate agent or landlord, ensuring that any alterations or issues concerning the property can be traced. This practice can prove invaluable should any questions arise in the future.

“If the landlord refuses to address the issues they may escalate, possibly resulting in additional harm to the residence. For instance, if a crack remains unattended and severe weather conditions, such as storms or heavy rain occur, water may enter the property, potentially causing damage to personal belongings.

“Landlords should also ensure that they act on any concerns raised by their tenant. Failure to do so could result in damages claims against them and/or lost rent.”