Damp Problems in Rented House

martindow

I have a friend who rented a house this summer. As soon as it rained it became clear that there is a serious damp problem - the house is about 200 years old. The solution of opening doors on sunny days to keep it at bay is not going to be possible as winter approaches. She has complained to the landlord and the letting agent who has also written to the landlord asking for the rent to be reduced.

Any suggestions on where to go from here? Is it an idea to involve Environmental Health?

lazy_girl

EH is a good idea, also contact your council's housing dept, they usually have people who deal with problems with private landlords. Ask the agency if the landlord will supply a dehumidfier, if only as a temporary measure till it is properly sorted.

Take photos of the damp & send them to EH too, might get them round to inspect a bit quicker.

Are there any plans to get surveyors/builders in to have a look? Hassle the agency about this - them asking the landlord to reduce the rent suggests they recognise there's a problem. Depending on what EH say, you might want to get a solicitor involved.