Mould from penetrating(?) damp – tenants responsibility?

no_moolah

Hi all, living in a studio flat that is something of an experience. Recently there's been a few leaks coming through the ceiling, which I reported several weeks back. I've just come back from a few days away and the back of the kitchen cupboard is covered in mould, presumably from penetrating damp from the leak. LL has asked me to clean it, which I will, but it's an absolute state and will require taking out the shelves etc, which are screwed in.

Is this usually how it works i.e. Is it my responsibility or the LL's? Apparently a roofer was supposed to have been here last week but there's no sign of him.

Thanks all.

swingaloo

Of course you need to clean it but keep on at the landlord for the repairs to be done. Mould remover needs to be used and you ned to keep a regular check for it coming back.

It's your responsibility to ensure the inside of cupboard etc are kept clean even if it is mould forming.

propertyrental

Not sure how 'penetrating damp' results from a roof leak, but:

* structural issues like a the roof are the LL's responsibility as are its consequences - provided that

* the tenant has acted in a 'tenant-like manner' (google it) eg by reporting the issues to the LL

Are you sure the mould is a result of the leaks? Are the leaks from the roof (you're on the top floor?), or is there a plumbing issue? Or blocked/overflowing gutters?

Make sure you reposrt all issues in writing to the LL, but regarding the mould it might be diplomatic tpo clean it up even though you could make an issue of it and insist the LL do so....

dimbo61

Clean the inside of the cupboards with a mix of mould remover and bleach.
However report in writing both letter and email to your Landlord.
By doing this you can prove that you have reported the issues. 
Can you see any water when it rains running down the walls or pouring over the gutters or downpipes ?
Take photos and videos if possible and email to Landlord and Lettong agents 

no_moolah

Thanks all, appreciate the comments. More than willing to clear this up (I need the cupboard) but just wanted to check as this isn't the only case of mould not caused by myself and it's getting a bit of a pain.

Also, apologies, I should have been clearer – there have been leaks from the ceiling but there has also been water running down the walls, so I suspect there is blocked guttering or a cracked tile or something similar. I'm on the top floor and there's no plumbing above the area. It may not be penetarting as such but the back of the cupboard is wet.

propertyrental

Is the water running down the walls inside or outside? Inside, it's a roof leak (assuming it happens when it rains) or leak from a water tank/plumbing in the attic. Outside it's the gutters/downpipe.

Either way report in writing to LL. If nothing is done, report to Environmental Health at the council.