Inadequate Ventilation, Damp and Mould: Landlord Responsibility

When can ventilation be a landlord issue?

Responsibility may arise where a landlord-supplied extractor or fixed vent is defective, where ventilation is inadequate because of the property's design or condition, or where another landlord repair defect drives excess moisture. Tenant-owned equipment and tenant-caused damage are assessed differently.

What should a proper investigation consider?

• Whether kitchen and bathroom extractors work and discharge correctly.
• Leaks, penetrating damp and blocked gutters.
• Heating performance, insulation and cold bridging.
• Humidity, occupancy and moisture-producing activities.
• The location, pattern and recurrence of mould.

Does opening windows resolve liability?

Sometimes everyday ventilation reduces condensation, but it is not a universal answer. It may be unsafe or unrealistic to keep windows open continuously, and it will not repair failed extraction, leaks or defective building fabric.

What evidence helps?

Keep dated photographs, extractor tests recorded without dismantling equipment, humidity readings, heating records, repair reports and survey findings. Note cleaning and ventilation steps taken. Consistent evidence helps distinguish occupancy moisture from building-related causes.

Can poor ventilation support compensation?

Potentially, where breach, notice, causation and loss are established. The severity and duration of mould, rooms affected, health evidence and reasonable response all matter. Start with the claim evidence checklist.

This article provides general legal information only. It does not constitute legal advice on any specific case. Awaab's Law Claims Specialists is a trading name of Driscoll Kingston & Co Limited, authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA No. 839699).