Housing Disrepair, Damp and Mould: Your Rights in Lewes
Tenants and landlords in Lewes are covered by the same statutory framework as the rest of England. This guide addresses your rights when dealing with disrepair issues such as damp and mould. Which can have a significant impact on health and comfort. The Housing Disrepair scandal that led to the tragic death of Awaab Ishak has prompted new legislation aimed at protecting tenants from unsafe living conditions.
In 2026, concerns over housing fitness remain high in Lewes. Tenants are increasingly aware of their rights under recent laws designed to enforce landlords' responsibilities and ensure homes meet basic standards for safety and habitability. Understanding these rights is important not only for your health but also for holding landlords accountable when necessary.
What the Law Says
The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (Section 11) outlines a landlord's responsibility to maintain their property in good repair, ensuring that it remains structurally sound and free from disrepair. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 further strengthens these obligations by defining what constitutes a home fit for human habitation, which includes adequate lighting, ventilation, and freedom from damp and infestation.
The Renters' Rights Act 2025, often referred to as Awaab's Law, specifically addresses the issue of disrepair in private rentals. This legislation mandates that landlords take prompt action when tenants report issues like damp and mould. Lewes also establishes clear deadlines for repairs under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act.
How the Renters' Rights Act 2025 Changes This
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces stricter timelines and consequences for landlords who fail to address disrepair issues promptly. Under this law, tenants are entitled to a response within five days after reporting damp or mould problems. If the landlord doesn't act within this timeframe, tenants may seek further legal remedies.
Awaab's Law clarifies that landlords must ensure their properties meet minimum safety and habitability standards at all times. This includes addressing issues like leaking roofs, faulty plumbing, and structural defects that could lead to dampness or mould growth. The Act also provides for fines and other penalties if a landlord fails to comply with these requirements.
What This Means for Tenants in Lewes
Under the statutory framework of Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are always responsible for repairs that affect structural integrity or basic habitability. This includes fixing leaking roofs, resolving damp issues, and addressing other defects that can cause mould growth.
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 also introduces specific deadlines for addressing disrepair under Awaab's Law. For example, if you report damp or mould to your landlord, they must respond within five days and take action to rectify the problem as soon as possible. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences for the landlord.
Your Next Steps if You Need Help in Lewes
If you experience disrepair issues in your rental property in Lewes. Start by contacting your landlord in writing about the problem. Document all communications and keep a paper trail of evidence, including photos or videos of any damage. If your landlord doesn't respond adequately within five days under Awaab's Law. Consider reaching out to free advice services such as Citizens Advice or Shelter.
The Lewes council housing team can also provide support and guidance on how to proceed with formal complaints or legal action against landlords who don't address disrepair issues promptly. They may offer mediation services or direct you to further resources for resolving disputes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tenants often make the mistake of not documenting their complaints thoroughly or failing to follow up with written records when reporting disrepair issues to landlords. Landlords, on the other hand, might overlook minor defects that can escalate into major problems over time.
To avoid these pitfalls, keep detailed logs and communications related to any repairs needed in your property. Ensure you report all disrepair issues promptly in writing and gather as much evidence as possible to support your claims.
When to Get Professional Advice
If you have exhausted local council assistance and free advice services but still face unresolved disrepair issues, it may be time to seek professional legal counsel from a regulated solicitor. They can provide more specific guidance tailored to your situation and help you deal with complex legal processes such as formal complaints or court claims.
However, many tenants find that seeking initial advice through free services like Citizens Advice or Shelter is often sufficient for addressing most disrepair issues without needing a solicitor's involvement. Always check directly with Lewes council for any local policies or additional resources available to tenants in your area.
