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Report poor property conditions, including damp and mould
Overview - supporting renters in unsafe or poor housing conditions
This guide empowers renters living in privately rented homes to understand their legal rights and the steps they can take when facing serious housing issues- such as damp, mould, structural damage, or unsafe installations.
It outlines:
- Your landlord’s legal responsibilities under current housing laws (Housing Act 2004, Homes Act 2018, HHSRS).
- Upcoming changes under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and Awaab’s Law, which will strengthen tenant protections from 2026.
- How to report problems effectively, starting with your landlord and escalating to Norwich City Council if needed.
- What enforcement actions the Council can take if your landlord fails to act.
- Specific guidance on damp and mould, including health risks and legal obligations to fix root causes.
What renters will gain from this guide
- Clarity on legal rights and landlord obligations.
- Step-by-step instructions for reporting issues and escalating complaints.
- Templates and tips for documenting problems (e.g., writing to landlords, taking photos).
- Information on Council support, including enforcement powers and how to contact them.
- Awareness of upcoming legal reforms that will improve housing standards and tenant protections.
