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Original poster

Rental Problems, please help!

35 replies

Applefruitcake · 10/03/2024 12:14

I'm looking for some advice on our housing situation. Last year we moved into our current rental. Everything looked fine at first (was freshly painted) however, as soon as the temperature dropped a little, we noticed there was a big condensation problem. Windows constantly dripping, towels etc. never drying, mould building up, we've even found mould on some of our belongings. When we asked the landlord for advice, they basically told us that it's our fault for not airing the place. Since then we are taking precautions as much as possible and it has improved slightly, but mould still comes back just takes a bit longer. I am currently pregnant and very worried about my health, and we definitely do not wish to be raising a baby in these conditions.

Sorry for the long post, my question basically is - Can we get out of our one year contract and move earlier without losing money? And if so, how?

Any help or advice would be appreciated

OP posts:
Spirallingdownwards · 10/03/2024 12:44

Applefruitcake · 10/03/2024 12:41

Yes, we have started opening windows daily. We also purchased some disposable moisture collectors. Like I said, there has been some improvement in that it takes a bit longer for the mould to come back. We do try to dry clothes outside, but not always possible if it's raining and unfortunately there's not enough space for a tumble dryer.

if you aren't able tk wipe down everyday to prevent mould then the electric dehumidifier rather than the moisture catchers is what you need.

You can get a decent one from Screwfix for around £100. Lifechanger!

Original poster
Applefruitcake · 10/03/2024 12:41

Yes, we have started opening windows daily. We also purchased some disposable moisture collectors. Like I said, there has been some improvement in that it takes a bit longer for the mould to come back. We do try to dry clothes outside, but not always possible if it's raining and unfortunately there's not enough space for a tumble dryer.

OP posts:
snoopyfanaccountant · 10/03/2024 12:39

We had to sell a rental property because several tenants complained about damp. We had surveyors and environmental health involved to try to resolve it but every survey came back that there wasn't a structural issue and that the problem was that the tenants weren't ventilating the property. Environmental health said the same. The tenants still wouldn't accept that they were part of the problem and wouldn't ventilate the property so the next time it fell vacant, we sold.
We have a dehumidifier and you would be surprised how much moisture everyday living creates. I run it when I am drying washing and even before I hang any washing there is a lot of moisture in the air.

Before anyone starts bashing me for being a landlord, DH's job means that we can't live in our own house so we are landlords to keep a toe in the property market for when we need to buy ourselves a home.

TrishTrix · 10/03/2024 12:33

My modern flat has a condensation issue - I think there isn't very good ventilation and when it's cold I don't really like opening the windows!

I run a dehumidifier all the time. And use the laundry mode on it when drying washing. I just had to replace mine - the Meaco Arete range looked like they had the best reviews so that's what I got. I've been impressed with it so far (2 weeks).

Peppermint81 · 10/03/2024 12:28

Or if you cannot be bothered, speak to landlord and say worried as pregnant please could they advertise and as soon as they get new renters you will move no matter how long it takes.

vivainsomnia · 10/03/2024 12:27

It could indeed be your lifestyle. You do need to make sure the windows are regularly open long enough if not permanently. Yes, it means it is colder but you make do with warm jumpers and hot water bottles.

It is also worth investigating in a very good dehumidifier.

You could ask for an investigation to ensure it's not a problem with the walls, roof, windo s but if it was when you move, even if they repainted, it's more likely to be a lifestyle problem mixed with an older house more prone to mould forming.

Peppermint81 · 10/03/2024 12:25

My non rented house can get like this!
Invest in a dehumidifier, a tumble dryer (saves hanging up washing creating damp), open windows every morning, wipe condensation off the windows when it is there. If mould does appear get rid of it quick - I like astonish mould spray or even a dettol wipe really helps!
Annoying but important to keep on top of it.

Elephantswillnever · 10/03/2024 12:25

Where do you think the condensation problem comes from, is it damp/ a leak or is it just due to lifestyle? I think environmental health departments are hot on mould issues. I’d contact them and ask advice. Possibly if he got an enforcement notice or the threat of our he’d be more inclined to wave you off early.

Babyroobs · 10/03/2024 12:22

Could you buy a cheap dehumidifier ?

TheBeeb · 10/03/2024 12:21

Are you opening windows every day? Drying clothes inside? Everyday life creates a lot of moisture and it has to go somewhere. Airing the house daily and adequately heating does wonders for condensation