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Renter Radar / Repairs, damp and mould

Repairs, damp and mould

Your landlord is responsible for most repairs and for keeping the home safe. Build a record, tell them in writing, and escalate to the council if they ignore it.

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is being brought in over phases. Since 1 May 2026, section 21 "no-fault" evictions have been abolished, most tenancies are now periodic (rolling), and rent increases follow a reformed process. Some parts, like Awaab's law for private tenants, are still to come. Each point below is labelled as in force or coming. Source.
In force (long-standing law)

Build your evidence

Keep a dated log. Take clear, dated photos or video of the problem and any damage.

Save every message. Note when you first reported it and what was said.

In force (long-standing law)

Tell the landlord in writing

Report the problem in writing (use the letter below) so there is a clear record and a reasonable time to fix it.

In force (long-standing law)

Escalate to the council

If the landlord does not act, contact your council's private-housing or environmental health team. They can inspect and order the landlord to fix serious hazards.

GOV.UK: complain about a private landlord →

Coming, no date set yet

Awaab's law for private tenants

Awaab's law will set legal time limits for landlords to fix damp, mould and other hazards. It applies to social housing now and is due to be extended to private tenants, but that extension is not in force yet and has no start date. We will not state a private-sector deadline until it is law.

Letter: report a repair to your landlord

Fill in the parts in brackets. A template, not legal advice.

Dear [landlord or agent name], Re: repair needed at [property address] I am writing to report the following problem: [describe the problem, for example damp and mould in the bedroom]. I first noticed this on [date] and reported it on [date]. It is affecting [health / use of the room / belongings]. Please arrange for this to be inspected and repaired within a reasonable time, and confirm when someone will attend. I have kept dated photographs. Yours sincerely, [your name]
This is general information, not legal advice, for renters in England. For free expert help contact Shelter (0808 800 4444) or Citizens Advice.
Renter Radar gives general information on renters' rights in England and links to the official source for each point. It is not legal advice and we are not your solicitor. Legal status checked 2026-07-24. About and sources