How to identify potential mould issues in rented properties efficiently
The Government’s updated guidance on mould and damp in rented properties has been widely welcomed to help improve living standards for tenants – but it does join a growing list of responsibilities for landlords and letting agents.
Potentially 6.5 million homes have damp and mould. This isn’t a small issue. The health risks attached to untreated mould are serious for residents and landlords should take action to remedy their properties. Under new guidelines, landlords are responsible for ensuring their rented properties are free from these hazards. Failure to do so can result in prosecution and fines.
With a high price to pay in terms of health, property managers should integrate the extra checks and improvements into their existing inspections to avoid piling on extra admin.
Whilst lifestyle plays a part in the growth of mould due to condensation, it is now up to landlords to take the necessary actions to identify and deal with the underlying causes. It is not enough to ask residents to open windows, wipe down surfaces and dry their washing outside.
Processes need to change in tenancy management, but this doesn’t have to mean a costly overhaul. With a few small changes and the help of digital solutions, letting agents and landlords can stay on top of mould without getting bogged down in paperwork.
1. Integrate checks into existing property visits
The best way for landlords and agents to approach this is to integrate mould inspection into property visits and interim checks. There’s no need to organise a separate property visit unless mould has been reported in-between your scheduled checks.
You’ll need to add mould and damp checks into your checklist when visiting the home to ensure critical areas aren’t missed. Inventory apps can help with all the prompts you’ll need when inspecting the condition of the property and its contents.
2. Assess the condition with prevention in mind
When assessing the condition of the property before a new tenancy begins and at check-in and check-out, take note of the ventilation, heating systems, windows, draughts, insulation, water damage (inside and out) and energy efficiency. Take a preventative approach to damp and mould.
3. Guide and support tenants
Educate your tenants on the risks of mould and how to prevent it from occurring. Whilst tenants can’t be blamed for lifestyle choices causing damp, you can guide them on measures to reduce the risks. This includes advice on ventilation after cooking, showering and laundry, and tips on heating the property and keeping it warm and dry.
4. Make reporting easy
Establish an easy way for your tenants to report on mould, and for your team or contacts to act on those reports. Secure tenant platforms and apps are useful for tracking issues in rented properties, and can help when scheduling remedial work too.
5. Respond quickly
By encouraging prompt reporting via easy-to-use channels, you will be able to act quickly to any reports of mould (or reports of issues that could lead to mould) in accordance with the guidelines. It is then up to you to introduce a quick-response process. Prioritise these reports and make sure you have a network of trained professionals who can remove mould safely.
The Inventory Hive app provides an easy way to integrate mould checks into each property visit, and also provides a closed and secure communication channel for tenants and property manages to report on and track issues. Learn more at Inventory Hive and sign up for your free 30 day trial (no card details required) and create unlimited property inspection reports.
