How to Protect Your Health from Mould and Pests in Your Rental Home
Living in a rental home comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Among the most pressing concerns for tenants are mould growth and pest infestations—issues that not only damage property but can also significantly impact your health. Damp patches, water leaks, rodent infestations, and broken heating systems can make a home unsafe and unhealthy to live in. Understanding how to protect yourself and your family from these dangers is crucial, particularly when your landlord fails to take appropriate action.
Tenants have legal rights to live in safe, habitable conditions. If your landlord has ignored repeated requests to fix issues such as mould, pests, or structural damage, you may be entitled to make a damp and mould claim. At Housing Disrepair Team, we specialise in supporting tenants in taking action against negligent landlords—ensuring essential repairs are made and helping you pursue compensation for the stress and inconvenience caused.
The Hidden Health Hazards of Mould
Mould is a common but dangerous issue in poorly maintained homes. It thrives in damp and humid environments, often resulting from water leaks, poor ventilation, or rising damp. Once mould begins to grow, it can spread quickly and release spores into the air, which are easily inhaled.
Health effects of mould exposure include:
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Respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis
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Skin irritation and rashes
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Eye discomfort
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Allergic reactions
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Weakened immune responses, especially in children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions
Black mould, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is particularly toxic. It releases mycotoxins that can lead to chronic respiratory problems and long-term health issues. Mould is not just unsightly—it’s a sign that your home may be unsafe to live in.
Pest Infestations and Health Risks
Pests such as rats, mice, cockroaches, and bedbugs are more than just a nuisance. These unwelcome invaders can pose serious health risks:
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Rodents carry diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella.
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Cockroaches can trigger asthma and spread bacteria across surfaces.
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Bedbugs cause painful, itchy bites and can lead to skin infections from scratching.
Infestations often occur in properties with structural disrepair, like broken windows, holes in walls, or leaking pipes. Pest infestations are a sign that your landlord may be failing in their duty to maintain a safe and habitable property.
What Can You Do as a Tenant?
If you notice signs of mould or pests in your rental property, it’s essential to act quickly:
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Report the issue in writing to your landlord or letting agent. Keep a record of all communications.
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Document the problem with photos, videos, and notes on how it affects your health and living conditions.
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Seek medical advice if you experience symptoms linked to mould or pests. Keep medical records as supporting evidence.
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Avoid DIY repairs that could potentially worsen the issue or damage the property.
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Contact a professional like Housing Disrepair Team to help enforce your rights.
If the landlord doesn’t respond in a reasonable timeframe or refuses to make repairs, you may have a strong legal case.
How We Help at Housing Disrepair Team
At Housing Disrepair Team, we understand how frustrating and stressful it is to live in an unsafe environment. Our experienced claim managers are here to support tenants across the UK. We handle cases involving:
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Damp and mould
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Pest infestation
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Water leaks and damage
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Broken heating systems
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Cracked walls or ceilings
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Faulty windows and doors
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Unsafe flooring or staircases
We manage the entire process from start to finish, including collecting evidence, communicating with your landlord, and guiding you through your legal rights. We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning there is no upfront cost to you.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Even if the problem seems small now, mould and pest issues tend to escalate quickly. The longer they go unaddressed, the greater the risk to your health and well-being. Ignoring these problems can also lead to long-term damage to your belongings and permanent health issues.
Tenants often hesitate to speak out for fear of eviction or retaliation, but the law is on your side. Your landlord is legally obligated to keep the property in good condition. If they fail to act after being informed of the issue, you are within your rights to pursue a housing disrepair claim.
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
Your home should be a place of safety and comfort—not a source of stress and illness. If you're suffering due to mould, pests, or other disrepair issues in your rental property, don't suffer in silence.
Reach out to Housing Disrepair Team today for expert advice and a free assessment of your situation. We'll fight to get your home repaired and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Need help now?
Are you facing ongoing issues with damp and mould in your rented property? If your landlord has ignored your complaints, you may be entitled to compensation for damp and mould. This can include payment for damaged belongings, health problems, and the stress caused by living in poor conditions. Don’t let the situation get worse—take action today. Find out what you could claim and how the process works with expert advice from the Housing Disrepair Team. Click here to learn more: compensation for damp and mould
