Recent reports show an increase of nearly 900% in reports of mould and damp in Edinburgh city homes.

What are the main causes of damp and mould?

Mould and damp in properties is caused by excess moisture.

A build-up of moisture in buildings can be due to leaking pipes, rain seeping in or rising damp in basements or ground floors.

What rights do I have as a tenant?

If you live in rented accommodation and are suffering from symptoms or exacerbation of a pre-existing illness as a result of damp or mould in your rented property, and you have evidence to support this, then it may be possible to make a claim for compensation against your landlord.

In order to be able to do this, you must prove that your landlord or council have failed in their duty to keep the property in a good state of repair. 

How much compensation could I get?

Compensation will depend on several factors including but not limited to:

• The severity of your injuries.
• How long you were exposed to the damp and mould.
• The money you spent to repair the problem.

What evidence will help my case?

The evidence we would ideally like to see includes:

• pictures showing the mould or damp, preferably with timestamps.
• videos of the mould or damp.
• a copy of your lease.
• copies of communications between you and the landlord/ leasing company/ contractors and factors regarding your mould and damp.
• medical evidence of your injuries.
• any receipts or invoices for financial costs and losses for damages to your property or related to illness.

Time limits

You have three years from the date of the negligent act, or the day you became aware of the negligent act to bring a claim.

If you think you may have a claim and wish to discuss the matter further, please contact us on 0800 988 8082 or complete our online enquiry form.