Repairs, damp and mould
England · last checked 8 October 2026
You must keep the structure, outside, heating, hot water, water, gas, electrics and toilets in repair, and the home must be fit to live in. Councils inspect against 29 hazards, damp and mould among them.
Awaab's Law already sets strict time limits for social landlords. The Renters' Rights Act lets the government extend it to private landlords, but no start date has been set yet. LetSync already uses its time limits, so you're ready when it arrives.
Do
- Act quickly when a tenant reports a problem, and treat damp, mould, gas leaks, no heating and electrical danger as urgent.
- Make emergencies safe within 24 hours.
- For damp and mould, inspect within 10 working days and start the repair within 5 working days after that.
- Tell the tenant in writing what you found and what you'll do.
- Keep a dated record of when you were told, who you sent and when it was fixed.
Don't
- Don't blame damp and mould on "lifestyle" without checking the cause.
- Don't leave a tenant without heating or hot water while you wait for quotes.
- Don't end a tenancy because the tenant complained about repairs.
Deadlines
- Emergency (Awaab's Law, coming)
- Made safe in 24 hours
- Damp and mould (Awaab's Law, coming)
- Inspect in 10 working days, start repair 5 working days later
If you get it wrong
Council fines up to £30,000 for serious hazards, rent repayment orders, and claims from tenants for damage to health or belongings.
In LetSync: Log and track repairs with deadlines
Official sources
Stay on the right side of the law, without the paperwork
LetSync tracks your certificates, deposits, Right to Rent checks, rent and repair deadlines, and reminds you before anything runs out. Free for up to 5 homes.
Start freeThis guide is general information about the law in England, not legal advice. Laws and dates change, so check GOV.UK or ask a solicitor before acting on anything serious, such as asking a tenant to leave. Last checked 8 October 2026.