This is what you should do if your tenants complain about black mould.
As the temperatures in the UK drop and we head into winter, you may find that your tenants start to report mould on the walls of their homes. How can you deal with the issue before it gets out of hand?
As the temperatures in the UK drop and we head into winter, you may find that your tenants start to report mould on the walls of their homes. How can you deal with the issue before it gets out of hand?
Firstly, you will need to understand what is causing the mould. Is it rising damp? A leak? Or condensation?
Rising damp - If there is dampness in the form of water ingress, this usually comes from the ground up. Displaying as a wet mark rising from the floor, it will usually not increase more than a meter up the wall. The plaster, paint or wallpaper will bubble or lift, and the staining will often show as wet or brown marks as it rises from the ground. The remedy for this will likely be substantial and can involve damp proofing and replastering work.
A leak? -If there is a leak, there will usually be water staining to the walls, not necessarily black mould, usually from the roof down. Often the culprit is a slipped tile or a blocked gutter, so it could be a straightforward repair. Of course, it could be something more substantial, too - it is best to get this checked out by a professional.
Condensation -Black mould forming in the joins of the ceiling in any room, not specifically top floor rooms, is usually condensation. Forming around windows, in the corners of rooms and behind furniture. The remedy for this is typically a case of the way that the property is lived in
-ventilation
-warmth
-reduce moisture in the air.
The tenants may unknowingly be causing this mould as they live in the property. You should offer some guidance on reducing the moisture in the property. For example, drying wet clothes in the rooms or not using the fan in the bathroom as showers and baths create steam. Mildew can form when this moisture cools and settles on the room's walls. Warmth and ventilation are the key here.
Add a fan - A fan that comes on automatically in the bathroom can help immensely remove the steam formed in bathrooms.
Insulation - perhaps you could add more insulation in the loft space. This will ensure that the walls are not too cold, preventing the moisture in the air from becoming water as it touches the walls.
Clean off the windows - as the warmth of the inside hits the windows that are cold from the outside air, condensation can form - ask your tenants to clean this off daily.
Move the furniture off the walls - if the furniture is tight against the walls, the air cannot circulate. Make sure there is room between the back of the furniture and the walls to prevent mildew from building up there.
Ventilation systems can be fitted to properties to prevent the build-up of condensation and mildew, but they can be costly and invasive to fit in the property, causing disruption to your tenants. Try these tips first and see if the issue clears up before investing further.
If you have any questions about the management of your tenancy, give our team of property experts a call. They are on hand to help and have experience in everything property lettings and tenants.