Preventing Condensation & Mould; What Every Landlord Must Know This Winter

Why Condensation Matters More Than Ever

As temperatures drop and homes stay warmer inside than out, condensation becomes a common problem. It may seem harmless at first; a bit of mist on the windows or water on a cold surface, but condensation can quickly lead to mould, structural damage, and uncomfortable living conditions.

For landlords, the stakes are rising. With Awaab’s Law being introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak due to severe mould exposure, new rules will soon require landlords to respond to damp and mould complaints within strict, legally-defined timelines. Staying informed, proactive, and preventative isn’t just good practice; it’s essential compliance.

This blog breaks down what condensation is, why it happens, and the practical steps landlords, tenants and property professionals can take to prevent it.

What Exactly Is Condensation?

Condensation happens when warm, moist air touches a cold surface and turns into water droplets. The most visible signs appear on:

• windows

• tiles

• mirrors

• cold walls

• unventilated corners

  
  

But condensation can also form on materials you can't easily see; behind wardrobes, under beds, on external walls, or inside cupboards. When this moisture lingers, mould can develop quickly, often before anyone realises there’s a problem.

Why Condensation Is a Serious Issue

Left untreated, condensation can:

• create unhealthy, damp living environments

• trigger or worsen asthma and respiratory issues

• damage plaster, paintwork and internal structures

• ruin belongings and furniture

• lead to costly maintenance or refurbishment work

• cause tenants to raise complaints that soon fall under Awaab’s Law

  
  

In other words, it’s not something to ignore or treat lightly, prevention is always better than cure.

How to Prevent Condensation & Mould

1. Reduce Moisture at the Source

Everyday activities at home create moisture. Here’s how to minimise it:

• Cover pans while cooking

• Boil kettles only as needed

• Avoid using portable gas or paraffin heaters

• Dry clothes outdoors where possible

• If drying indoors, use a clothes airer in the bathroom with the window open or extractor on

• Never dry clothes directly on radiators

• When running a bath, add cold water first to reduce steam

  
  

These simple changes make a huge difference.

2. Increase Ventilation

Good airflow prevents moist air settling on cold surfaces.

Encourage tenants to:

• Keep a window slightly ajar when rooms are in use

• Open kitchen windows while cooking

• Open bathroom windows (or use extractor fans) during and after bathing

• Keep internal doors closed when cooking or showering

• Leave bedroom windows slightly open at night if safe to do so

• Allow ventilation behind furniture — keep a 9-inch (225mm) gap from external walls

• Avoid over-cluttering wardrobes and cupboards

• Wipe windows and sills in the morning

  
  

Remind tenants not to block air bricks, vents or chimneys; these are essential for healthy airflow.

3. Keep the Property Warm

Condensation forms more easily in cold rooms. Maintaining a low, steady level of heat during cold months can significantly reduce condensation. It’s more effective than short bursts of high heat.

If your property has trickle vents, dehumidifiers, or PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) systems, make sure tenants know how to use them correctly.

Awaab’s Law: What Landlords Must Prepare For

Awaab’s Law will soon introduce legal deadlines for damp and mould issues, including:

• mandatory investigations within tight timeframes

• clear action plans for resolving issues

• requirements for permanent solutions, not temporary fixes

  
  

This makes proactive management, including good communication with tenants and regular property checks, more important than ever.

Landlords who stay ahead now will avoid future compliance issues and protect both tenants and property assets.