A tenant advice group led by a husband-and-wife team has issued a new set of public-facing guidelines encouraging renters to assert their legal rights when facing issues with damp and mould.

The couple behind Tenant Angels—identified on the firm’s website as Daniel Mould and Emma—claim to have “partnered with almost a dozen law firms” to support tenants across the UK. The initiative, which they say has already helped thousands of renters, is now promoting a five-step approach to resolving unaddressed property disrepair, especially issues involving damp and mould.

In a direct appeal to tenants, Daniel Mould said:

“Landlords can’t just ignore mould and damp problems. It’s their legal duty to fix issues that affect your home’s safety and your health… You don’t have to suffer quietly or accept excuses.”

He challenged common landlord explanations that blame mould on “condensation” caused by tenant behaviour, arguing that poor insulation, lack of ventilation, or structural damp are the landlord’s responsibility.

The Five-Step Tenant Angels Approach:

1. Report it in writing
Tenants are advised to submit detailed written complaints—ideally via email—with dated photos. Keeping a digital paper trail is presented as essential to any formal complaint or legal action.

2. Give a deadline
Tenants are encouraged to set a clear timeframe: 7–14 days for non-urgent repairs; immediate action for serious risks. The guidance urges renters to be firm but polite.

3. Escalate to the council
If landlords fail to act, tenants are advised to contact their council’s environmental health team, who can serve legal notices or even prosecute landlords under housing standards legislation.

4. Don’t stop paying rent (yet)
The guide warns tenants not to withhold rent without seeking legal advice first, as this can result in eviction or arrears. Groups like Shelter and Citizens Advice are recommended.

5. Document everything
Tenants are urged to keep photos, a ‘mould diary’, and health records. This evidence can support compensation claims under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018.

Legal Context

Under the Fitness for Human Habitation Act, tenants can sue if their rental property is in poor condition—such as damp or mould that the landlord has failed to resolve. Successful claims may result in compensation for damaged belongings, health impacts, and disruption to tenants’ enjoyment of their homes.

Sector Implications

The Tenant Angels campaign reflects growing public awareness of housing disrepair rights. While some landlords may feel unfairly targeted, the initiative underlines the need for clear documentation, swift repairs, and good communication to avoid legal exposure.

Landlord and agent bodies may wish to review their repair response processes in light of increased tenant awareness and the likelihood of more legal referrals via tenant-focused platforms.

Landlord Response Toolkit: Damp, Mould and Tenant Complaints

Initial Response Checklist

• Acknowledge the complaint in writing within 48 hours.
  Even if the issue needs investigation, early acknowledgment builds trust and shows diligence.

• Ask for specific details and evidence.
  Request dated photos, descriptions of affected areas, and when the problem started. This helps prioritise the response.

• Log the complaint.
  Maintain a digital repair log or use property management software to timestamp every interaction. This is critical if legal proceedings arise.

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2. Inspection & Diagnosis

• Inspect the property within 7 days (or sooner if urgent).
  Arrange a visit by a qualified contractor or damp specialist. Bring a witness or take your own photos if needed.

• Assess causes: tenant behaviour vs structural issues.
  Note signs of condensation from lifestyle (e.g. lack of ventilation), but also check for structural damp, leaks, poor insulation or cold bridging.

• Issue a written diagnosis and action plan.
  Explain clearly what repairs (if any) are required and the expected timeline.

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3. Legal Duties & Best Practice

Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must ensure that the property is fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy. This includes:

• Freedom from damp and mould that harms health.

• Adequate ventilation, heating, and insulation.

• Prompt response to hazards affecting health or safety.

TIP: If a tenant involves the council, act immediately. Council inspections can result in Improvement Notices, hazard ratings (HHSRS), or fines.

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4. Communication Templates

A. Acknowledgement Email:

“Thank you for reporting the issue. We take all health and safety concerns seriously. We’ll review your evidence and arrange an inspection within the next [X] days. In the meantime, please continue ventilating the affected area and avoid covering vents.”

B. Action Plan Template:

“Following our inspection on [date], we have identified [cause]. We will undertake the following works: [list actions]. These will be completed by [date], subject to access. We appreciate your cooperation and will update you on progress.”

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5. What to Avoid

• ❌ Ignoring or delaying your response. Even minor delays can be used against you.

• ❌ Blaming tenants without evidence. Avoid suggesting lifestyle is the sole cause without inspection or professional input.

• ❌ Unlawful rent withholding threats. Engage constructively if a tenant considers withholding rent—offer mediation or signpost them to advice agencies.

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6. When to Seek Legal Advice

Seek legal support or advice if:

• The tenant threatens to pursue legal action under the Homes Act.

• The council has issued (or threatens) enforcement notices.

• The tenant’s health has been affected and they’ve documented this.

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7. Preventative Measures

• Invest in ventilation and insulation upgrades. This reduces future liability and improves EPC ratings.

• Provide a tenant welcome pack explaining how to manage condensation and when/how to report issues.

• Review and update your repairs policy annually.

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