Is Mould in Your Flat Making You Sick? What do

Mould in rental homes is a common but dangerous issue that affects thousands of tenants across the UK. Often underestimated as a minor inconvenience, mould can have serious health implications — especially for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing conditions like asthma. If you're living in a rented flat and noticing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or frequent headaches, mould could be the silent culprit behind your illness.

Fortunately, you are not powerless. Your landlord has legal obligations to ensure your home is safe, and you have every right to demand action. In this article, we’ll explore the dangers of mould, how to recognise when it’s affecting your health, and what steps you should take — with guidance from the housing disrepair experts who help tenants like you every day.

How Does Mould Affect Your Health?

Mould produces allergens, irritants, and sometimes toxic substances known as mycotoxins. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Persistent coughing or wheezing
• Nasal congestion or sinus infections
• Sore throat or irritated eyes
• Skin rashes or itchiness
• Headaches and fatigue
• Worsening asthma or respiratory conditions

In severe cases, mould exposure can lead to chronic respiratory illness. Children, the elderly, and individuals with immune system disorders are particularly vulnerable.

If you’re constantly feeling unwell in your flat but feel better when you leave, mould could be the hidden cause.

Common Causes of Mould in Rented Homes

Mould usually appears in places where moisture builds up and ventilation is poor. The most common causes in rental properties include:

• Leaking pipes or roofs
• Poor ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens
• Rising damp from unsealed foundations
• Condensation on cold surfaces
• Faulty or broken heating systems

It often appears as black, green, or grey spots on walls, ceilings, or around windows, usually accompanied by a musty odour. Paint may peel, wallpaper may bubble, and furniture or clothing may become damaged.

Your Landlord’s Legal Responsibility

Under UK housing law — including the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 — landlords are legally responsible for maintaining the structure and safety of their properties.

This includes:

• Fixing leaks
• Ensuring proper ventilation
• Repairing faulty heating or plumbing systems
• Addressing structural causes of damp and mould

If your mould problem stems from any of these issues, your landlord is obligated to fix it. They must act within a reasonable time frame after being informed.

What You Should Do as a Tenant

If you suspect mould is making you sick, take the following steps immediately:

1. Document the Issue

Take clear photos of the affected areas and any items damaged by the mould. Keep a health diary noting symptoms you or your family are experiencing.

2. Inform Your Landlord in Writing

Send an email or formal letter explaining the problem, including photo evidence. Keep copies of all correspondence.

3. Give a Reasonable Deadline

Depending on the severity, your landlord should act within 14 days — or sooner in urgent cases.

4. Get Medical Advice

Visit your GP if you’re experiencing health symptoms. Ask for a note stating your condition may be linked to your living environment.

5. Seek Help from Housing Disrepair Experts

If your landlord fails to act, you may be entitled to legal support and even compensation. That’s where housing disrepair experts come in.

When to Contact Housing Disrepair Experts

If your landlord ignores your reports or carries out temporary fixes that don’t solve the root cause, don’t wait. Housing disrepair experts can help you:

• Arrange a professional inspection
• Force your landlord to carry out proper repairs
• Claim compensation for health issues, stress, and damaged belongings
• Stay in your home without fear of eviction

Many services operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you won't pay unless they succeed in getting you results.

How Much Compensation Could You Receive?

If mould has caused damage to your belongings or your health, you could be entitled to compensation. This can include:

• Replacing damaged furniture or clothing
• Medical expenses or treatment costs
• Compensation for pain and suffering
• Reimbursement for missed work due to illness
• General inconvenience and distress

The amount varies depending on the severity and how long the issue has persisted.

Don’t Be Intimidated — Know Your Rights

Some tenants feel afraid to report disrepair for fear of eviction. But the law protects you. Retaliatory evictions are illegal, and landlords cannot penalise you for requesting necessary repairs.

Your safety and health come first. No one should have to live in conditions that make them sick — and with the help of housing disrepair experts, you don’t have to.

Final Thoughts

Mould in your flat isn’t just unsightly — it’s dangerous. If it's making you or your loved ones ill, take action today. Document the issue, report it in writing, and seek support if your landlord fails to act.

Tired of being ignored by your landlord? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to handle this on your own. Speak to the Housing Disrepair Team and let us help you get the repairs and compensation you deserve.