Citizens Advice Rural Cambs gives advice on damp and mould

Nick Blencowe is chief operating officer for Citizens Advice Rural Cambs. (Image: CA Rural Cambs)

The first thing to do is to report the issue to your letting agency or local authority. It’s not always easy to work out the cause of damp and mould, and your landlord might suggest that something you’re doing is contributing to it.

However, your landlord will be responsible for the issue if it’s being caused by structural problems or disrepair such as a leaking roof or bad insulation.

Damp is when an area of your property doesn’t dry out, often because it’s cold. Damp can lead to mould, which is a fungus that grows in areas where warm damp air condenses on cold surfaces, such as window frames.

On our website you can find information which will help you work out what type of damp you have and who is responsible and what you can do about it. You should also check your tenancy agreement for mentions of repairs and damp.

Your landlord is responsible for fixing a damp problem if it’s making your home unsafe to live in. For example, this could be if it’s affecting your health or the health of someone living in the property with you.

Recommending Reading: Read our Newsquest investigation into damp and mould

Your landlord will also be responsible if the damp is related to repairs they should have carried out, for example, if the roof is damaged. They would also have to cover the cost of repairs to any items damaged by the damp, including carpets and furniture.

One of the things that can contribute to damp and mould is condensation. One of the best ways to prevent condensation is to keep homes well-heated and ventilated, but high heating costs and cold weather can make this difficult for lots of us. If you’re finding it hard to insulate and heat your home, check our website to see if you’re eligible for support*

There are steps you can take to make sure you’re not contributing to a damp problem, and making it worse. Our website has advice on what to avoid, such as drying clothes on heaters, blocking air vents, or using portable gas heaters.

For further help and support contact Citizens Advice Rural Cambs on the details below:      

     · Adviceline: 0808 278 7807 - Monday to Friday 09.30 to 15.30pm.          

· Email or Web chat via:  www.citizensadviceruralcambs.org.uk         

        · Information also available on our website at  www.citizensadvice.org.uk

· Telephone: 01353 665555       

  Ely area - Drop-in from Monday to Friday between 10am–4pm at ‘The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely, CB7 4EE.