Damp Warning Signs for Landlords

Stop Damp Damage Early

The sun may be shining (or maybe not, since this is a British summer) but with autumn around the corner, it’s time for landlords to remind themselves and their tenants of the telltale signs of damp and how to prevent it.  It’s time to read about damp warning signs for landlords (and tenants).

We highlight three main reasons for doing so. Primarily, landlords must consider the health and wellbeing of their tenants. Damp and mould can cause a number of dangerous health issues that include death. Tackle them as soon as possible, especially under the upcoming Awaab’s law. This requires landlords to fix hazards such as damp and mould at speed.

As well as being harmful to health, damp and mould can also damage your property. Once it gets hold it can be both challenging and expensive to eradicate. So, what are the telltale signs that a damp issue is developing and how do you recognise it before it’s too late?

Windows stay tightly closed

Poor ventilation is one of the key causes of condensation within a property, which can then develop into damp and mould. This is especially a problem in high-humidity areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. However, it can also be a challenge in bedrooms, with condensation formed from occupants’ breath overnight.  If your tenants are never opening windows or doors this could be an early warning of bad ventilation habits that could cause damp and mould problems to develop.

Washing being dried inside

If tenants are drying washing inside this could also cause issues with damp through condensation. Encourage tenants to line-dry clothes where possible or to use a tumble dryer. If they do insist on drying washing inside, stress that they mustn’t put items on radiators and should instead use airers. These should also be placed in well-ventilated areas to dry, such as a small room with windows open. A dehumidifier can also help to draw excess moisture out of washing and the air.

Heating use is minimal

Heating can be a controversial issue. Tenants may not want to heat rooms that aren’t being used because of the cost. However, a low heat setting in all rooms will help to reduce the risk of condensation and therefore the possibility of mould and damp developing.

Property damage that could cause damp

These first three points are all tenant behaviours that could be a precursor to damp and mould problems developing. These are mostly caused by condensation, but you’ll also need to recognise the other types of damp too. This is because they are all usually caused by damage to your property and highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.

Penetrating damp is where water gets into the building from outside due to defects in the walls, roofs, windows or floors. Rising damp comes up from the ground and is often due to defective damp proof courses and membranes. Meanwhile, traumatic damp is caused by factors such as leaking pipes or environmental flooding.

You should regularly check roofs, pipes and walls for damage or defects,  especially after storms. Encourage tenants to report any damage before any leaks can develop. Inside, peeling wallpaper, visible damp or staining and defective plaster will all indicate problems with damp.

Strange odours

Is your rental property starting to emit a musty odour?  Mould may be growing somewhere out of sight, typically in areas where furniture is pushed against an outside wall, for example. Take tenant concerns seriously, and encourage them to report such issues. Where damp and mould is involved, bring in qualified experts to both confirm the problem and solve it.

Callaways Letting Agents support landlords from Brighton & Hove to Worthing. We can help new and long-term landlords adapt to new regulations to safeguard your investment. Reach out now for expert advice