Cleaning mould the right way: 3 steps for landlords
Ensuring the health and well-being of your tenants is the priority of any conscientious landlord. One critical aspect of maintaining a safe and habitable living environment is addressing the presence of mould promptly and effectively.
Let’s go through the three essential steps to take when a tenant reports a mould problem. Check out our black mould guide if you’re unsure how to confirm the presence of mould.
These steps are in line with the latest government guidance and will ensure that you are complying with all UK legislation.
Step 1: Document the issue
The first step in addressing mould in your tenant’s home is to document its presence. Make a visit in person to photograph the affected area and draw around it to preserve a record. This documentation serves a dual purpose: it can help identify the source of the mould and assist in planning remedial action.
A qualified professional can assess the mould source before removal if organised quickly. It’s crucial not to delay the removal process. Tenant health should always be prioritised above all.
Tenants may wish to pursue medical advice following the presence of mould in their home, especially those with pre-existing conditions. Landlords must never wait for a diagnosis to take action. The presence of mould is reason enough.
Step 2: Safely remove mould
Mould can be effectively removed from hard surfaces using appropriate cleaning products, but it’s crucial to follow a few guidelines:
- Opt for mould and mildew-specific cleaning products over bleach. This choice prioritises health and safety.
- Removal may be necessary if mould has penetrated deeply into absorbent materials such as carpets, soft furnishings, ceiling tiles and damp plaster.
Anyone who removes mould should wear protective equipment. Government guidance recommends:
- Eye protection (like goggles)
- Gloves (like thick household cleaning gloves)
- Face mask (to protect from fumes)
This equipment helps prevent contact with mould spores or cleaning products. Keep doors shut during clean-up to prevent mould spore spread, but ensure windows are open during and after the process. All protective gear and clothing should be washed or disposed of safely after use. Materials removed during the clean-up, as well as the cloth or sponge used, should be bagged and disposed of properly. Always follow product guidance to protect workers and tenants in the home.
Mould cleaning – removal and protection
People who clean a mould problem often reach for simple bleach-based solutions.
Government guidance states that specialist mould and mildew products should always be used to clean away mould.
The Dryzone Mould Removal & Prevention Kit is a two-part system.
First, use Dryzone Mould Remover to get rid of surface mould staining.
Next, use Dryzone Mould Sanitiser to remove the invisible mould hyphae that lie under the surface of mould-ridden walls.
Apply a mould-resistant paint or anti-mould additive to maintain a biocidal barrier to mould growth after the mould has been eliminated. This ensures that the property remains mould-free in tandem with solving environmental and structural issues.
Step 3: Address building deficiencies
Remember – giving tenants the tools to constantly firefight minor mould issues is not the sole solution. Solving the underlying environmental issue that causes mould growth is essential.
Dealing with building deficiencies, condensation issues, and a lack of ventilation will help you maintain a healthy living environment.
Moisture can enter homes through structural defects like leaking pipes or damaged roofs. Quick and effective repairs not only remove moisture but also prevent expensive treatments later. Always engage with TrustMark approved contractors to ensure expert consultation and treatment.
Combat condensation by improving ventilation in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Regularly maintain ventilation systems and educate tenants on their proper use.
Boost indoor temperature and reduce condensation risk by investing in energy efficiency measures like retrofit insulation. Ensure tenants can control their heating and provide clear instructions on its use.
These steps can help prevent mould and maintain a comfortable living space for your tenants.
Collaborative problem-solving
Work closely with your tenants to find collaborative solutions and prevent future recurrences. Some tenants who struggle with independent living may face challenges in maintaining a cleaning regime after mould removal, so building relationships with cleaning professionals who can support tenants can be immensely beneficial.
Relocating tenants to suitable alternative accommodation until damp and mould hazards have been resolved may be necessary in severe cases.
Taking swift and appropriate action to remove mould from your properties is essential for the well-being of your tenants. Following these three steps to prioritise the swift removal of mould will ensure a clean and healthy living environment for your tenants and foster a positive landlord-tenant relationship.
