A landlord has sought advice from the Property118 community regarding a tenant’s request for compensation related to mould issues in a managed flat. The tenant has made several claims, including compensation for the handyman’s visits and the use of a dehumidifier, alongside alleged damage to personal belongings.

Background to the dispute

Debra, the landlord, explained that her flat is managed by a letting agent. Some time ago, mould appeared in the property, which was addressed by a handyman. The handyman warned that the mould would likely return if the windows were not opened regularly. Unfortunately, this proved to be the case a few weeks later.

At that point, the tenant indicated a desire to terminate the tenancy early but has remained in the property and intends to stay until the end of June. The tenant is now seeking compensation for the handyman’s visits to his room and for the use of a dehumidifier, which Debra provided to help mitigate the mould problem.

Compensation claims and tenant behaviour

The tenant has requested £381 in compensation, claiming that several personal items, including a backpack and bedding, were damaged by the mould. However, Debra has noted that the tenant has not provided any photographic evidence or shown the damaged items. Additionally, the tenant has refused to submit copies of energy bills related to the dehumidifier’s use, despite the letting agent’s proximity to the flat and requests to do so.

Instead, the tenant has continued to send what Debra describes as passive-aggressive emails. Complicating matters, the tenant has not yet paid the rent due for the current month.

Landlord’s position and concerns

Debra is uncertain how to proceed with the compensation claim. She questions whether to accept the tenant’s assertions about the damaged items and the amount requested or to negotiate the sum. Adding to the complexity, Debra is in the process of selling the flat, with the sale expected to complete within the next week or so.

She has also expressed frustration at the lack of guidance from the managing letting agent, who has so far offered no advice on handling the situation.

What this means for landlords

This case highlights the challenges landlords face when dealing with mould issues and tenant compensation claims. It underscores the importance of clear communication and documentation, including photographic evidence and receipts, when addressing damage claims. Landlords should ensure tenants provide proof to support compensation requests before agreeing to any payments.

Furthermore, landlords must maintain a proactive approach to property maintenance and tenant education, such as advising tenants on ventilation to prevent mould recurrence. The involvement of letting agents should ideally include offering timely advice and support to landlords navigating disputes.

Finally, landlords should be aware of the potential impact of unresolved disputes on rent payments and property sales, and seek professional guidance where necessary to protect their interests.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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