The Property Ombudsman has issued new guidance following two surveys of letting and managing agents. The aim is to address the issues of condensation, damp, and mould in rental properties.

A survey of 719 letting agents found that nearly all respondents had managed properties affected by damp and mould, with 42% reporting recurring problems.

While 72% of agents were confident in their ability to resolve these issues promptly, 9% expressed concerns about landlords' awareness and ability to recognise such problems.

In 2023, The Property Ombudsman received over 1,000 enquiries related to damp and mould, resulting in more than 200 investigations.

The surveys indicated that a lack of certainty among agents regarding the identification of damp and mould could delay resolution. Additionally, 23% of respondents believed landlords required more education on the potential consequences of these issues.

The guidance aims to assist tenants, agents, and landlords in identifying the signs of damp and mould, and in implementing preventative measures.

Key recommendations include maintaining adequate heating and ventilation, using extractor fans, keeping windows open when appropriate, cleaning condensation promptly, and using anti-fungal treatments on any mould.

Rebecca Marsh, The Property Ombudsman, stated: “Our research shows what a complex issue this is. Condensation, damp, and mould are interlinked and caused by a variety of factors: environmental, structural, and behavioural.

“One thing is clear, we need to work with renters, landlords, and agents to prevent it occurring.

“We’ve published some simple guides which we’ll share with businesses, landlords and tenants to ensure greater awareness of the causes and symptoms, how to report it and the risks in living in damp and mouldy conditions.

“We welcome the Government’s plans for further protections for tenants in the private sector as we’ve seen the devastating effects of properties not being adequately repaired or maintained.”

The guidance underscores the importance of proactive management in ensuring rental properties remain in good condition and highlights the need for cooperation between all parties to address these challenges effectively.