Condensation is problem we all face over winter. It is cold outside, windows stay closed, and the warm moist air generated from kitchens and bathrooms lingers, eventually condensing on cold windows when the house cools down. Unfortunately, if the condensation is not dealt with, it turns into mould, and before long windows are blighted with green and black fungal growth. Mould can also appear on walls, furniture, and in serious cases of damp, on soft furnishings and carpets in the form of mildew.
How does condensation and mould affect landlords?
Aside from any problems you might have in your own home, mould and mildew are often a big issue in rental properties. Condensation tends to be more common in older properties due to poor ventilation and heating, but it can just as easily be caused by common practices such as drying clothes on radiators and failing to properly vent tumble dryers outside.
Condensation and mould infestations are very difficult to get rid of if they are allowed to spread. Condensation rots timber framed windows from the inside out and can stain UPVc windows. Mould is also a serious health problem if left untreated: fungal spores can cause allergies and asthma, and in severe cases, toxins can form that are life threatening.
As a landlord, it is your duty to take care of building maintenance issues that might be causing mould—for example a leaky roof—but if the problem is down to the tenants drying clothes indoors or not using any extractor fans provided, it is a good idea to warn them they could lose their deposit if condensation and mould growth lead to permanent damage inside the property.
