(Names in this article have been changed to protect the family’s privacy.)
Sarah (not her real name) lives in Hull with her two young children. She pays her rent every month. She reports repairs when they are needed. She has done everything she is supposed to do as a tenant.
But for over a year, damp and mould have been spreading throughout her home.
It started with small patches in the bedroom corners. Then the ceiling began to stain. The walls felt constantly wet. Black mould formed around the windows. Her children began coughing at night. Clothes in wardrobes started to feel damp. The smell never went away.
She reported it again and again.
Nothing changed.
When the Situation Escalated
As the mould worsened, concerns were raised about the children’s living conditions. Eventually, social services became involved.
Not because Sarah was neglecting her children.
But because the property itself had become unsafe.
Imagine being told that your children’s health is at risk because of mould in your home when you have repeatedly asked your landlord to fix it.
Imagine sitting in a meeting where your parenting is questioned because of housing conditions you cannot control.
Sarah described it as the most heartbreaking moment of her life.
This Is Housing Disrepair – Not Parental Failure
Landlords are legally responsible for maintaining:
- The structure and exterior of the property
- Roofs and external walls
- Windows and seals
- Plumbing that may cause leaks
- Proper ventilation systems
When these are neglected, damp and mould can take over quickly.
In this case, the issue was linked to ongoing structural defects and water ingress that had not been properly repaired. The conditions deteriorated over time, affecting the children’s health and wellbeing.
Yet the pressure fell on the tenant.
This Happens More Often Than People Realise
We have seen similar cases across Hull and other areas where families are living in severe damp conditions and feel trapped.
Parents are embarrassed.
They feel ashamed.
They feel scared to speak up.
But if you are paying your rent and reporting the problems, this is not your fault.
The law is clear: landlords must keep rental properties in a safe and habitable condition.
Acting Early Can Prevent Escalation
The most important thing is to act before situations reach crisis point.
If damp and mould are spreading in your home:
- Report it in writing
- Keep photographs and videos
- Document health symptoms
- Seek advice early
Legal action can often force landlords to carry out repairs and address the root cause.
No family should face the fear of losing their children because repairs have been ignored.
If You Are in a Similar Situation in Hull
If you are living with severe damp and mould and feel the situation is spiralling, you are not alone.
There are steps that can be taken to enforce repairs and protect your family’s living conditions.
You deserve a safe home.
Your children deserve a safe home.
And no parent should feel the heartbreak of being blamed for disrepair they did not cause.
