Renters' Rights Bill: New Rules on Addressing Mould Explained
New rules on dealing with mould and damp in private rental properties are on the horizon. Here's what landlords need to know.
The UK is a (generally) cold and wet country with the oldest housing stock in Europe.
So, it's no surprise that problems such as damp and mould can arise in residential properties.
This was brought into sharp focus earlier this month when the English Housing Survey revealed that damp is a growing issue in the private rental sector which affects 9% of properties.
And as damp and mould can cause serious respiratory problems, the government is understandably keen to eliminate it.
This is why it's introducing stricter restrictions on how landlords handle tenant complaints on the issue.
Even if you're an experienced landlord with effective anti-mould and damp-proof measures in place at your investment property, it's crucial you understand the changes that are coming in as part of the Renters' Rights Bill.
Here's a rundown of what they currently entail.
New rules as part of the Renters' Rights Bill
But first, an update on the Bill, which you've probably already heard a lot about.
The Bill passed the report stage in the House of Commons last month and is currently being scrutinised by the House of Lords. It's expected to become law in spring.*
Along with several key measures, such as the abolition of Section 21, the Bill includes new rules on how landlords respond to hazards such as damp and mould.
It will compel private landlords to comply with Awaab's Law, which was introduced in July 2023 after the tragic death of toddler Awaab Ishak.
