How to Keep Condensation Under Control in Rental Properties
Published on August 31, 2024 by Sarah Mac
According to research, 47% of tenants in private rental properties claim they are living with excessive condensation issues that they are unable to control, whilst 44% claimed to have limited their heating within the last 18 months.
The research, by Utilita Energy, came from a survey of 2,000 energy bill payers, of which 377 lived in a private rental property. The key problem areas for condensation included windows, walls and ceilings.
Commenting on the root cause of the issue, an energy efficiency spokesperson for Utilita said,
“Our research confirms the size of the problem, and with energy bills set to rise again this coming winter, this issue is only going to get worse.
“With so many households’ financial resilience at an all-time low, landlords would benefit from finding time to remind their tenants about the ventilation requirements for the property, in the interest of maintaining a habitable home.”
In July 2023, the Social Housing (Regulation) Act was introduced, bringing with it Awaab’s Law, with the aim of ensuring that tenants are protected from the damaging effects of damp and mould.
The law requires landlords of social housing to observe stringent time limits when it comes to addressing damp and mould, as well as other dangerous hazards. As soon as a complaint is made, the landlord must respond and prepare a report on the issues, and put a remedial action plan in place with 14 days of the first contact.
The law came about following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak who died due to a respiratory condition caused by exposure to extensive mould in his home. Despite the family reporting the mould to the social landlord, no action was taken to deal with it in the three years between they notified it, and Awaab’s death.
The Labour government has indicated that Awaab’s Law and a wider Decent Homes Standard will be introduced into the private rented sector via the Renters’ Rights Bill, which is the Labour Party version of the Conservative’s Renters Reform Bill which didn’t hit the statute books before the previous government was dissolved ahead of the General Election.
The briefing notes for the King’s Speech referred to Awaab’s Law being applied to the private rented sector as well as the social housing sector, “Setting clear legal expectations about the timeframes within which landlords in the private rented sector must make homes safe where they contain serious hazards”.
How can landlords work with tenants to maintain a habitable home and avoid the dangers of damp and mould?
Here is some practical guidance for landlords to help achieve and maintain the best possible living conditions in private rented property:
Tenant communication
The best way to avoid hazardous living conditions developing in a rental property is to maintain clear, two-way communication between landlord and tenant.
At the start of the tenancy, it is good practice for landlords to take time to talk tenants through the way the property works, and the importance of ventilation.
Explain the importance of using any built-in extractor fans, such as in the bathroom and kitchen, and advise tenants on how little they cost to run, which can be as low as £1 per year. Some tenants avoid using extractor fans for fear of racking up expensive electricity bills.
It is important to make sure tenants are aware of the perils of crowding windows and walls with furniture. Explaining that this can prevent areas of the property from breathing which can allow mould to grow is important.
Talk tenants through the issues associated with drying washing indoors. If possible, give them permission to dry their clothes outside (some tenancy agreements do not allow this).
Provide dehumidifiers or humidity monitors
Consider providing dehumidifiers or humidity monitors, especially in high-risk areas such as bathrooms or basements. Tenants can monitor the humidity levels and take action when levels rise too high, helping to prevent condensation and mould growth.
Ensure adequate heating
Explain to tenants the importance of maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the property, even in rooms that are not in use.
Cold rooms are more prone to condensation, which can lead to dampness and mould. Ensure that heating systems are in good working order, and provide guidance on using them effectively. Wherever possible, upgrade to energy efficient systems that are not as expensive to run, bearing in mind that tenants with an eye on costs may purposely not use the heating sufficiently.
Prompt reporting of issues
Emphasise the importance to tenants of reporting any signs of damp or mould as soon as they notice them.
Respond promptly to address any issues before they develop. Regular mid-term inspections can also help identify problems early on.
Window maintenance and use
Encourage tenants to use trickle vents if the windows are equipped with them, or to open windows periodically to allow fresh air to circulate.
Ensure that windows and seals are in good condition, and consider installing double glazing if the property doesn’t have it already, as it helps reduce condensation.
Routine property maintenance
Carry out regular checks to ensure that gutters, downspouts, and roof tiles are intact and functioning properly. Blocked or broken gutters can lead to water ingress, which can exacerbate damp issues. Inform about the importance of keeping these areas clear and reporting any external issues they notice.
Insulation and draught proofing
Proper insulation and draught-proofing can help to reduce condensation and improve the energy efficiency of the property. Make sure the property is well-insulated, particularly in loft spaces, walls, and floors, and ensure that draughts are minimised.
Set clear expectations in the tenancy agreement
Ensure that the tenancy agreement outlines the responsibilities of both landlord and the tenant regarding ventilation, heating, and property maintenance. This formalises the expectations and makes it clear that both parties need to work together to prevent damp and mould.
Provide tenant resources
Consider providing tenants with leaflets or online resources that outline best practices for reducing moisture and preventing damp. Visual aids or reminders can be helpful for reinforcing good habits.
Whilst the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law are yet to be introduced into the private rented sector, the move is clearly on the cards, and landlords are wise to adopt best practice now, not just to prepare for compliance with forthcoming new legislation, but to maintain a healthy and safe environment for tenants to live in.