A council has launched a new initiative which aims to help renters and landlords tackle damp, mould and condensation in homes.

The Breckland Healthy Homes Service is a pilot scheme funded by the government and seeks to improve living conditions for the area’s tenants and offer extra guidance and resources to support local landlords. 

A Breckland council spokesperson says: “Damp, mould and condensation are serious issues that can affect anyone, but we know they pose particular risks to the young, the elderly, and those with existing health conditions. By working collectively with landlords, tenants, and our partners, we will together further improve the quality of health and housing across our district.” 

Council officers will be investigating reports of damp and mould in the private rented sector across the district. 

As part of the new scheme, private rented tenants can borrow ‘data loggers’ to record humidity levels and other information. This data can be later used to discuss some simple lifestyle changes. Tenants are invited to participate in upcoming clinics to better understand their rights and responsibilities and to receive support in addressing housing concerns. 

The council says its private rental sector staff have received specialist training and will be working directly with landlords to provide advice about their responsibilities and how damp conditions can be avoided in properties. They will be able to signpost landlords to potential funding opportunities or further guidance to help make improvements and will be holding a special ‘landlord forum’ event in the coming weeks to share key information and advice. 

The council’s advice to renters who find damp and mould is to approach their landlords initially and give them time to make improvements before the council can take any action. 

It adds in its advice to tenants: “We can give you support and advice on how to approach your landlord. We recognise that most landlords want the best for their tenants, we encourage any landlord wanting advice on how to tackle damp and mould to contact us.”