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There's a damp smell in my rented flat that comes and goes. What should I do?Beta*

Repairs, damp and mould
Private renting in England since the Renters' Rights Act 2025, unless the question says otherwise. General information, not legal advice.

A damp smell that comes and goes often points to a hidden leak, condensation behind furniture, or damp under floors or behind kitchen units. Note when it happens (after rain, after showers, in cold weather), take photos of any marks, and report it to the landlord in writing. Ask them to investigate the cause rather than just cleaning the surface. Keep a record of when you reported it. If the landlord does nothing and damp marks or mould appear, the council's environmental health team can inspect.

On this site: Moving in audit

Sources: Shelter: damp and mould

More on repairs, damp and mould

See all the renting questions, or the free advice services for help with your own situation.

Savvy Renter — savvyrenter.co.uk · free tools for renters. Answers checked 15 October 2026. The full list is also published as faq.json.
* Beta: new page, not yet reviewed by a housing adviser. General information, not legal advice.