The Council's responsibilities
In situations where a landlord fails to take adequate measures to resolve damp and mould issues within a rented property, tenants can seek support from Broxbourne Council Environmental Health.
An officer will conduct a comprehensive inspection of the property using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). This assessment is a meticulous process aimed at evaluating the severity of issues and their impact on the well-being of tenants.
If serious problems are found, the Council will take further action, which may include:
Informal Negotiations with the Landlord: The council initiates dialogue with the landlord, encouraging them to make the necessary improvements to the property. This step aims to resolve the issues amicably and avoid the need for formal enforcement actions.
Formal Enforcement Actions Against the Landlord: If, after negotiations, the landlord fails to take the required actions to rectify the problems, Broxbourne Council has the authority to initiate formal enforcement actions. This may include issuing a notice compelling the landlord to undertake specific repairs or improvements within a defined timeframe. Failure to comply with such notices can lead to fines or further legal consequences for the landlord.
If you've followed the advice provided above and continue to experience persistent damp and mould problems, you have the option to submit a complaint to the Council about your property. If communication with your landlord has not led to a resolution, you can report the issue through the following link:
Report an environmental issue or nuisance
The Council has also provided a Damp and Mould Action Plan, which details improvements to the service and steps taken to ensure cases are dealt with properly.
You can view the latest PDF document here: