If you have black mould in your home, it could be putting your health at serious risk , and your landlord may be legally responsible. This article explains the top 3 health dangers and how Claim Today and DS BAL can help you get repairs and compensation. Keep reading to protect your home, your health, and your rights.
Black mould in your home can harm your health this winter. Learn the top 3 risks, your tenant rights, and how Claim Today and DS BAL can help you claim compensation.
Winter should feel warm and safe , not dangerous. But for thousands of tenants, black mould in your home becomes worse when cold weather hits. You start noticing the musty smell, dark patches spreading across walls, and the constant dampness that makes your chest feel heavy.
If you have children, elderly relatives, asthma, or allergies, black mould in your home is more than an inconvenience. It’s a direct threat to your health , and your landlord is legally responsible for fixing it.
This guide breaks down the three major health risks linked to black mould in your home, your legal rights as a tenant, and how Claim Today and DS BAL can help you get repairs and compensation.
What Causes Black Mould in Your Home?
Black mould develops when excess moisture, poor ventilation, or leaks aren’t dealt with properly. Common causes include:
- Leaking pipes and roofs
- Faulty heating systems
- Poor building insulation
- Rising damp
- Broken extractor fans
Read more about Housing Disrepair Claim.
The 3 Serious Health Risks of Black Mould in Your Home
1. Breathing and Lung Problems
The number one risk of black mould in your home is respiratory illness. Spores irritate your lungs and can trigger:
- Asthma attacks
- Persistent coughing
- Chest tightness
- Breathing difficulties
- Lung infections
This is extremely dangerous for babies, elderly tenants, and anyone with asthma or COPD.
2. Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions
When black mould in your home touches your skin or your bedding, clothes, or furniture, it can cause:
- Rashes
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Allergic flare-ups
Tenants with eczema often see severe worsening symptoms in mouldy homes.
Guidance from Shelter England on damp and mould risks and landlord duties.
3. Severe Illness for Vulnerable People
Black mould is especially harmful if you are:
- Pregnant
- Elderly
- Immunocompromised
- Living with chronic illness
- Stressed or low-immunity from cold homes
Children exposed to black mould in your home have a higher risk of long-term breathing issues and hospital visits.
Are Landlords Responsible for Black Mould in Your Home?
Yes. Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act, your landlord must:
- Fix leaks
- Repair damp and mould
- Improve ventilation
- Ensure heating works
- Keep the property safe and healthy
If they ignore your complaints, delay repairs, or blame “lifestyle”, you may be entitled to compensation.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim for Black Mould in Your Home?
Compensation depends on:
- How long you lived with black mould
- The damage to your belongings
- Health effects
- Rental payments
- Living conditions
- Stress, discomfort, and inconvenience
High-value cases involve health deterioration, repeated medical treatment, and severe or long-term disrepair.
What To Do If You Have Black Mould in Your Home
1. Take clear photos of mould and damp
Show spread, location, and damage.
2. Report the issue to your landlord in writing
Keep copies of emails or messages.
3. Keep medical records if you get sick
Chest issues, skin irritation, allergies — all relevant.
4. Track damaged items
Clothes, mattresses, furniture, electronics.
5. Contact Claim Today and DS BAL
We inspect evidence, build your case, deal with your landlord, and help you get repairs and compensation.
Why Choose Claim Today and DS BAL for Housing Disrepair?
- We specialise in mould, damp, leaks, and unsafe homes
- No win, no fee
- Fast case assessment
- Tenant-focused support
- High success rate on mould and damp claims
- Professional evidence and report collection
Living with black mould in your home is not normal , and you don’t have to accept it.
FAQs
Can I claim compensation if I have black mould in my home?
Yes. If your landlord failed to fix damp or mould, you may be entitled to compensation.
How long does a mould claim take?
Most cases take a few months depending on severity, evidence, and landlord response.
Does black mould cause serious health issues?
Yes. It can affect breathing, skin, immunity, and long-term health.
Will making a claim affect my tenancy?
Your landlord cannot legally evict you for complaining or claiming.
How much can I get for black mould in your home claims?
It varies based on damage, health impact, and duration of the disrepair.
