The Decent Homes Standard outlines the minimum requirements for social housing. While initially introduced in the Renters (Reform) Bill, which stalled due to the General Election, it has now been reintroduced in the Labour government’s Renters’ Rights Bill. This shines a light on the critical responsibility that landlords have to ensure that tenants live in safe conditions.
However, with 3.5 million households in England living in a home that fails to meet the Decent Homes Standard and 1 million living in a home with damp, the reality is that too many are exposed to conditions that affect their wellbeing. Mould and damp are not only eyesores, but they are also serious health hazards. For landlords, this means taking proactive and strategic measures to combat mould through better ventilation, moisture control and insulation. These steps will help maintain tenant health and protect property investments.
Understanding the root cause
Mould typically originates from condensation. Condensation occurs when warm, moisture-laden air encounters cold surfaces. As the air cools, it releases water droplets that settle on surfaces, especially on impervious ones like glass and painted walls, where water collects visibly as beads or a thin film.
However, on permeable surfaces like wallpaper or porous plaster, the moisture is absorbed and may go unnoticed, often misdiagnosed as rising damp. Persistent condensation on permeable surfaces can lead to structural issues, surface damage and mould growth.
The following strategies can help landlords tackle condensation and mould, ensuring tenants can live in healthy environments and adhere to the Decent Homes Standard.
Reduce the amount of water in the air
Condensation is worsened by high humidity, so the first step in prevention is managing and reducing the amount of water vapour in the home.
1. Lifestyle changes to reduce moisture
Small changes to tenants daily routine can reduce condensation. Simple steps like opening windows regularly, drying clothes outside instead of indoors where possible, keeping shower doors closed while using the bathroom and using lids on saucepans can minimise moisture build-up.
2. Ventilation
Older homes often have natural ventilation through gaps, floors and flues, while newer and renovated homes are sealed with double glazing, draught-proofing and blocked vents to
conserve energy. Installing mechanical ventilation fans in bathrooms and kitchens can significantly help with airflow and moisture control. These fans should ideally operate at 0.5 to 1.5 air changes per hour to be effective.
3. Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, reducing the relative humidity level, especially in homes with limited ventilation and are most effective at night. Running costs can vary depending on the severity of condensation and the device’s energy efficiency.
Controlling mould
Alongside managing humidity, landlords can use mould-control products that actively prevent mould growth on vulnerable surfaces. The key is finding a balance between short-term and long-lasting treatments.
1. Short-term solutions
Anti-mould sprays are fast-acting and can be used immediately to kill existing mould and prevent future growth. These sprays provide a temporary solution while condensation problems are addressed and are an ideal initial step to keep homes safe and mould-free.
2. Medium-term solutions
Anti-mould paints such as Dryzone Anti-Mould Emulsion Paint are emulsion paints with additional biocides, preventing mould growth for up to five years. However, to maintain their effectiveness, they shouldn’t be overcoated as once applied this can reduce the biocidal function. Alternatively, concentrated biocide additives can be mixed with any colour of emulsion paint or grout, which offers flexibility in decor while protecting against mould growth for up to three years.
Another route is using anti-condensation paints which contain hollow glass spheres that add a layer of insulation. This helps to prevent condensation by keeping wall surfaces warmer, reducing the likelihood of mould formation on cooler surfaces.
Increase wall surface temperature
The final step to preventing condensation and mould is to increase the temperature of wall surfaces. By addressing the insulation of external walls, landlords can enhance both thermal comfort and condensation control in the property.
1. Insulation boards
Thin aerogel insulating boards with high thermal performance (conductivity below 0.015 W/mK) can significantly reduce heat loss through walls. These exceptionally thin boards decrease the wall's U-value from 2.1 to 0.8, creating warmer wall surfaces that inhibit condensation.
2. Insulating tiles
These are slightly thicker than insulating boards, generally measuring 10–12 mm, and offer a simple and effective way to boost wall temperature. With very low thermal conductivity (below 0.05 W/mK), insulating tiles reduce heat loss and keep surfaces warmer, preventing condensation. They can also be plastered with board finish plaster to maintain aesthetic appeal.
3. Breathable waterproofing brick sealers
External walls account for approximately 35% of a home’s heat loss. Applying a breathable waterproofing sealer like Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream can bolster a home’s insulation and weatherproofing. By reducing the U-value of external walls, these sealers improve thermal efficiency, lower heating costs, and guard against moisture ingress, further decreasing the chance of condensation and mould.
Condensation and mould issues impact both the health of tenants and the structure of a property. By adopting these preventive measures, landlords can create safe and comfortable homes and ensure that they meet their responsibilities and protect their investments.
