Mould and damp help in Cardiff

If you rent in Cardiff

Council or housing association tenants

Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, in force since 1 December 2022, all landlords must keep homes fit for human habitation. Damp and mould growth is one of the 29 matters they must consider.

Private tenants

Raise the problem with your landlord first, in writing. If you can’t agree, Citizens Advice, Shelter Cymru or your local council can help, and you can ask the court to decide whether the home is fit to live in.

England’s Awaab’s Law doesn’t apply in Wales.

In Cardiff, the local council is Cardiff Council. You can also find your council on GOV.UK.

Sources (last reviewed September 2026): Fitness for human habitation: guidance for tenants (GOV.WALES).

If you own your home

Start by working out where the moisture is coming from. Condensation is the most common cause of damp in homes in England, ahead of penetrating damp and rising damp, so check ventilation and cold spots before paying for a damp-proof course. Our guide to choosing a specialist lists the questions to ask.

Common causes in any home

• Condensation: moisture from cooking, washing and drying clothes settling on cold walls and windows.
• Penetrating damp: water getting in through roofs, gutters, pointing or window seals.
• Rising damp: moisture coming up from the ground through walls or floors.
• Leaks: from pipes, radiators, baths and showers.

Older homes with solid walls can have colder surfaces where condensation forms, while newer, well-sealed homes depend on extractor fans and trickle vents working properly.

Health

Damp and mould can cause or worsen breathing problems, infections, allergies and asthma, and can affect mental health. Children, older people, pregnant women and people with health conditions or weakened immune systems are at greater risk. If someone is unwell, speak to a GP or call NHS 111. More on health risks.