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We Are Supporting Damp & Mould Awareness Week 2025
Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week runs from October 20th to 26th, 2025.
While Awaab's Law sets specific, fast-acting mandates for the social sector in England, please remember that the fundamental legal responsibilities for all private landlords in Wales are already clear and robust under our own legislation.
The Welsh Legal Standard: Fit for Human Habitation (FFHH)
In Wales, all landlords operating under an occupation contract are legally required to ensure the dwelling is both in repair and Fit for Human Habitation (FFHH) at the start and throughout the occupation.
This obligation is set out by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and its associated Fitness for Human Habitation (FFHH) Regulations. Crucially, the Regulations explicitly list "Exposure to house dust mites, damp, mould or fungal growths" as the first matter and circumstance to be considered when determining if a home is unfit.
The Three Pillars of Prevention for Welsh Flats
A. Ventilation 🌬️ (The Moisture Manager)
The most crucial step in a flat is managing moisture at the source. Always use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms when cooking or showering, and keep them running afterwards. If you must dry laundry indoors, confine it to one room, keep the door closed, and slightly open a window to release the moisture. Everyday airflow is essential.
B. Heating 🔥 (The Surface Protector)
Mould thrives on cold surfaces. Keeping your flat consistently warm helps prevent surfaces from reaching the 'dew point' where condensation forms. Consistent heat is key: Maintain a low, consistent background temperature throughout the day. Avoid turning the heat off completely, as reheating a cold flat can be less effective and more costly for damp control.
C. Maintenance & Reporting 🛠️ (The Legal Obligation)
Structural dampness requires immediate attention. Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act:
- For FlatHomes: Once we are made aware of a repair or a potential FFHH issue, we must carry out the work within a reasonable time and to a reasonable standard. We will promptly inspect for the root cause.
- For Contract-Holders: You must report any potential structural leaks, patches of damp, or mould in writing immediately. Your prompt action allows us to meet our legal obligations.
Our Commitment: Proactive Welsh Property Management
Although the specific timelines of Awaab's Law do not apply to the Private Rented Sector in Wales, the spirit of the legislation—to treat damp and mould as an urgent health hazard—is fully aligned with our Welsh legal and moral duties.
FlatHomes.co.uk is committed to:
- Proactive Inspections: Identifying potential issues before they become hazards.
- Clear Communication: Educating our contract-holders on how their habits (heating, ventilation) affect the property.
- Swift Action: Investigating and remedying reported issues quickly to maintain the FFHH standard.
