Housing Disrepair, Damp and Mould: Your Rights in Reigate and Banstead
Tenants and landlords in Reigate and Banstead are covered by the same statutory framework as the rest of England when it comes to disrepair and housing conditions. This guide outlines your rights under national laws designed to ensure that rental properties meet a minimum standard for habitability, focusing on recent legal changes and practical steps you can take if your home is in poor condition.
In 2026, issues such as damp, mould, and structural defects have become more pressing due to the increased frequency of extreme weather events. Tenants are now better protected under new legislation designed to hold landlords accountable for maintaining safe and healthy living environments. Understanding these rights is important to protecting your health and wellbeing.
What the Law Says
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11 outlines that a landlord must maintain the structure of the property, including roofs, walls, windows, and floors. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 extends these obligations to cover all aspects of living conditions, ensuring that homes are safe, clean, warm, and free from infestations like mould.
The Renters' Rights Act 2025, also known as Awaab's Law, specifically addresses disrepair issues in private rentals. It mandates that landlords must address any reported disrepair or health risks, such as damp and mould, within strict deadlines to prevent harmful conditions from persisting.
How the Renters' Rights Act 2025 Changes This
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces significant changes for private renters. For instance, it requires landlords to respond to complaints about disrepair, including issues like damp and mould, within seven days of receiving notice from a tenant. If no action is taken by the landlord after this period, tenants have additional rights to escalate the issue further.
The Act also mandates that landlords must keep all areas of the property in good repair, ensuring that they're fit for human habitation at all times. This means that any issues affecting health and safety-such as leaks causing damp or inadequate heating leading to cold temperatures-must be addressed promptly by the landlord.
What This Means for Tenants in Reigate and Banstead
Tenants in Reigate and Banstead have several statutory rights when it comes to disrepair:
- Landlord's Responsibilities: The landlord is legally required to maintain important structural elements of the property, such as ensuring that walls are sound and windows don't leak. Additionally, they must address issues like damp and mould within seven days of being notified by the tenant under Awaab's Law.
- Fitness for Human Habitation: Tenants may use this law to challenge landlords who fail to maintain homes in a condition fit for human habitation. This includes ensuring that the property is free from health risks such as mould, which can cause respiratory issues and other serious health problems.
Your Next Steps if You Need Help in Reigate and Banstead
If you experience disrepair or damp and mould issues, your first step should be to notify your landlord in writing. Keep a copy of this letter for your records. If the issue isn't resolved within seven days, consider contacting:
- Citizens Advice: This organisation can provide free legal advice on tenant rights.
- Shelter: Another valuable resource offering support and guidance.
- Reigate and Banstead Council Housing Team: They may be able to offer further assistance or intervene if necessary.
It's also advisable to gather evidence of the problem, such as photographs or notes from medical consultations related to health issues caused by poor living conditions. This documentation can strengthen your case if you decide to take legal action.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Documenting Issues: Failing to keep detailed records and evidence of disrepair can weaken your position when seeking help.
- Ignoring Health Risks: Overlooking the health implications of issues like mould can lead to serious health problems. Address these concerns promptly.
- Neglecting Timeframes: Missing out on critical deadlines, such as not reporting a problem within seven days under Awaab's Law, can limit your legal options.
When to Get Professional Advice
If you have exhausted free advice services and the situation remains unresolved, speaking to a regulated solicitor may be necessary. They can provide tailored legal guidance based on your specific circumstances. Alternatively, consider contacting local tenant support organisations or community groups for further assistance. Always check with a solicitor or Shelter before taking significant action to ensure that you're making informed decisions.
