At this time of year damp can be a problem in student houses. It can cause mould on the walls and furniture. It encourages mites and can increase the risk of respiratory illness.
Damp can be caused by excessive condensation, leaking pipes, holes in the roof or walls, or blocked gutters.
Dampness may be the responsibility of the landlord, particularly if it is due to poor insulation, ventilation or heating. They have a duty to keep the property wind and watertight and reasonable fit for human habitation. However, tenants also have a responsibility to keep the property in a good state of repair, and the dampness may be their responsibility as they contributed to it. Therefore it is not always the landlord's responsibility to deal with damp. It will depend on the tenancy agreement, the severity of the problem and the cause (i.e. disrepair to the exterior of the building).
UPSU Advice service tops tips to avoid damp:
- Dry your washing outside; use a condensing tumble dryer; or pay approximately £3 at a launderette to have your washing dried. For every wash load you dry inside you release 4 pints of water in to the room!
- If you have to dry your clothes inside, do so over a clothes rack and not directly on top of your radiator.
- Try to keep the inside temperature reasonably constant for as much of the time as possible. Going from hot to cold all the time can cause more condensation.
- Make sure you ventilate the property. This includes opening your windows and using the ventilation fan in the bathroom.
- If you have a leak then inform your landlord immediately.
More info
If need housing advice please contact the UPSU Advice Service
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