Mould on walls is more than just an eyesore—it can cause serious health issues, particularly for children, elderly people, and anyone with respiratory problems. In many rented homes, mould is a recurring issue due to poor ventilation, leaks, or rising damp. If you’re living with mould, it’s important to deal with it quickly and properly.
If you’re a tenant facing persistent mould in your home and your landlord isn’t taking action, you may have a legal right to claim for housing disrepair. Contact our expert team today to find out how we can help.
Common Causes of Mould on Walls
Mould tends to grow in damp and humid environments. In rental properties, some of the most common causes include:
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Condensation on cold surfaces
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Rising damp coming from ground moisture
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Poor insulation or heating
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Lack of proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens
Understanding the cause is key. If the mould is due to structural problems, your landlord is responsible for fixing it under UK housing law.
Step-by-Step: How to Safely Remove Mould from Walls
Before you start cleaning, wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from harmful spores. Always ventilate the area by opening windows.
What You’ll Need:
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Rubber gloves
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A mask
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Bucket of warm water
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Mild detergent or white vinegar
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Sponge or soft brush
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Clean, dry cloths
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Mould-resistant paint (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Open windows and doors for ventilation. Remove or cover furniture and carpets around the affected area.
Step 2: Mix Your Cleaning Solution
Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water in a bucket. Alternatively, use warm water and a mild detergent.
Step 3: Clean the Wall
Use a sponge or soft brush to scrub the mouldy area gently. Avoid using bleach on painted walls as it may damage the surface.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
Wipe the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly. Use dry cloths to prevent any remaining moisture from staying on the wall.
Step 5: Prevent Future Mould
If needed, repaint the wall with mould-resistant paint once it’s completely dry to help prevent the mould from returning.
When Should Your Landlord Fix the Mould?
If the mould is caused by issues like water leaks, faulty heating, broken ventilation systems, or rising damp, it is legally your landlord’s responsibility to resolve it.
Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords are required to keep rental properties in a safe and healthy condition. If they fail to act after you’ve reported the mould, you may be eligible to make a housing disrepair compensation claim.
Not sure if you qualify? Speak to our team today. We offer free advice and a no-win, no-fee claim process. Don’t let mould continue to affect your health and living conditions.
Don’t Just Clean – Resolve the Root Cause
Removing mould yourself is only a short-term solution. If the underlying issue is still there—like a leaking pipe or poor insulation—the mould will return. Always report problems to your landlord and keep a written record along with photos.
If your landlord isn’t responding to repair requests, you may be entitled to compensation and a legally required repair.
Take Action Today
Have you reported mould to your landlord, but nothing has been done? Are your walls damp and affecting your family’s health?
Our team at Housing Disrepair Team helps tenants across the UK get repairs and compensation for mould and damp issues in council and housing association homes. We’ll support you from start to finish no win, no fee.
Reach out now for a free consultation. Fill out our claim form on housingdisrepairteam.org.
