Can Anti-Mould Paints and Sprays Stop Mould in Your Home?
Across the UK, anti-mould paints and sprays are widely available both in stores and online. Most of these products contain a chemical called benzothiazoline, which helps to fight mould growth. While they can be useful in the short term, it’s important to understand that they do not solve the root cause of damp and mould in your property.
How Anti-Mould Paint Works
Anti-mould paint creates a thin protective layer on walls or ceilings that prevents mould from growing. However, the effect of these chemicals weakens over time. If the underlying issue — such as condensation, leaks, or poor ventilation — isn’t resolved, the mould will eventually return.
That’s why many tenants facing ongoing damp problems still need to pursue council housing repairs or housing disrepair claims when landlords fail to fix the underlying cause.
Preparing and Applying Anti-Mould Paint
To get the best results from anti-mould paint, proper preparation is key:
- Clean the surface thoroughly and remove any existing mould, dust, or debris.
- Ensure the surface is completely dry before painting.
- Stir the paint well to ensure an even texture.
- Apply the first coat smoothly, using a roller for large areas and a brush for corners.
- Allow the coat to dry fully — usually between 2–5 hours, depending on the product.
- Apply a second coat in the same way and ensure the room stays well-ventilated during and after application.
Why Paint Alone Won’t Solve the Problem
While anti-mould paints and sprays can improve appearance and temporarily stop mould growth, they are not a permanent fix. If the source of the damp — such as a leaking roof, faulty guttering, or inadequate insulation — isn’t repaired, the problem will return.
If you live in a council or housing-association property and your landlord has failed to act, you may be eligible for legal support to help get the repairs done and, in some cases, seek compensation for the inconvenience or health impact caused.
FAQs About Anti-Mould Paint
How long does anti-mould paint last?
Most anti-mould paints are effective for around 3–5 years, depending on the severity of damp in the property. However, the paint will lose effectiveness faster if leaks or condensation are not fixed.
Can my landlord just paint over the mould?
No — simply painting over mould does not count as an adequate repair. Landlords have a legal duty to fix the underlying issue causing damp and mould. Painting over the damage is only cosmetic and doesn’t meet repair standards.
Can I claim compensation if my landlord refuses to fix the problem?
You may be able to. If you’ve reported mould or damp and your landlord has failed to act within a reasonable time, you could be eligible for a housing disrepair claim. A regulated solicitor would assess your circumstances before any claim begins.
Will I need to pay anything upfront to start a claim?
If your case is accepted, it may proceed on a no-win-no-fee basis, meaning there’s no upfront cost. If your claim succeeds, a success fee may be deducted from any compensation, and full details will be explained clearly before you agree to proceed.
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Important information
Disrepair Support is a trading style of CFS Redundancy Payments Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under FRN 830857 for claims-management activity.
Eligibility and outcomes depend on individual circumstances and solicitor assessment.
“No-win-no-fee” arrangements apply only where accepted by our partner solicitors, and a success fee may be deducted from any compensation awarded.
Full details are provided before any agreement is signed.
