Propertymark indicates that landlords alone may not be sufficient to address damp and mould issues in certain private rental properties. The complexities of these problems often require a collaborative approach involving landlords, agents, and tenants to effectively identify and resolve the underlying causes. Recognising the multifaceted nature of damp and mould, it is essential that all parties work together to find practical solutions.
Recently, The Property Ombudsman issued new guidance aimed at helping agents, landlords, and tenants manage condensation, damp, and mould in residential properties. This guidance is a response to the growing concerns about the prevalence of these issues in the private rental sector. By providing clear protocols and advice, the Ombudsman hopes to facilitate better communication and understanding among stakeholders, ensuring that problems are addressed promptly and effectively.
A survey conducted by The Property Ombudsman (TPO) among 719 letting agents revealed that nearly all of them have encountered damp and mould problems in the properties they manage. The results of this survey highlight the widespread nature of these issues within the rental market. Specifically, 42% of letting businesses reported ongoing issues related to damp and mould, indicating a significant challenge that needs to be addressed.
Interestingly, the survey also uncovered varying levels of confidence among agents regarding landlords’ ability to recognise damp and mould problems. Approximately 9% of agents expressed uncertainty about landlords’ awareness of these issues, while 72% believed that most landlords could resolve them quickly when they are identified. This disparity underscores the need for ongoing education and support for landlords to enhance their understanding and management of damp and mould in their properties.
Propertymark has recently released more details from a survey regarding damp and mould issues within rental properties. According to the findings, letting agents reported a total of 3,280 properties currently facing problems related to damp and mould. Alarmingly, 81% of these properties were directly managed by landlords, indicating that a significant portion of the responsibility lies with property owners.
The survey also highlighted an important perspective among letting agents: while most believe that landlords are aware of the serious consequences associated with damp and mould, there is still a considerable number of cases where progress is hindered. In these instances, property owners often require education about the potential impacts of these issues before they are willing to take the necessary action to resolve them. This gap in understanding can lead to delays in addressing the problems, which can worsen over time.
Furthermore, the consequences of neglecting damp and mould issues can be significant. Beyond the potential for structural damage to properties, there are also health implications for tenants. Prolonged exposure to damp and mould can lead to respiratory problems and other health concerns, making it vital for landlords to take these issues seriously.
In light of these findings, Propertymark has stressed the importance of proactive education. They assert that letting agents should routinely inform new tenants about practical steps they can take to manage condensation, damp, and mould. This education is especially critical in properties that have a history of such issues, as tenants may need additional guidance to mitigate potential risks effectively.
In a statement on its website, Propertymark reinforces that fostering awareness and understanding among both landlords and tenants is essential. By equipping tenants with the knowledge to tackle these problems, agents can help ensure that damp and mould issues are addressed promptly, benefiting both property owners and occupants in the long run.
When surveyed, the majority of agents indicated that they preferred to share information about a property’s susceptibility to damp and mould at the point of offer. If a property was only prone to condensation, this information was usually provided during check-in.
According to the survey, 83% of respondents identified tenant activities as the main cause of dampness and mould, with drying clothes indoors, failing to use extractor fans while cooking or showering, and inadequate heating and ventilation being the primary contributing factors.
The Property Ombudsman (TPO) suggests several steps that agents can recommend to tenants to help manage excess moisture and condensation in their homes. These include wiping down windows regularly, drying laundry outside or in a well-ventilated room, and keeping a moderate level of heating throughout the property to maintain a consistent temperature.
Propertymark emphasizes that once a potential issue of damp or mould is identified, it should be treated seriously, and action must be taken promptly. If residents express health concerns or if they are vulnerable due to age or existing medical conditions, remediation efforts should be prioritized.
The trade body stresses the importance of maintaining communication with tenants during this process. Living with mould and damp can cause significant distress, so keeping tenants informed can reassure them that steps are being taken to address the situation.
For further information, guidance on handling these issues is available from both The Property Ombudsman (TPO) and the UK Government.
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