For many people across the UK, winter means turning up the heating, closing the windows and spending more time indoors. For people living with damp and mould, their home can unfortunately become a place where allergy symptoms are hard to manage through the colder months.

This coming winter may prove especially difficult as energy prices rise and the effects of a strong El Nino weather system is felt.

Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated environments and is more than an unsightly problem. Mould spores can act as both an irritant and an allergen. For anyone sensitive to mould, exposure can trigger symptoms including a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy, red or watery eyes, an itchy throat or ears and a nasal drip. Mould exposure may also trigger wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing – particularly for people with asthma.

At Allergy UK we understand that damp homes are a housing issue, not simply a lifestyle issue.

We also know that getting rid of mould can be very difficult. A tenant might be able to improve ventilation or reduce moisture in their property, but they can’t take on repairs needed for a leaking roof, fix penetrating damp or address fundamental problems with their property’s structure and heating. They must turn to their landlord for help.

Houseowners, on the other hand, can tackle these jobs but may struggle to meet the financial burdens of house repairs. Some local councils offer grants to help with repairs for people on low incomes which are worth investigating.

For both groups of people, rising energy costs can make people reluctant or unable to heat their homes adequately. The Met Office predicts that the 2026 / 27 El Niño is increasing the chances of wetter and stormier conditions during late autumn and early winter.

This combination of moisture, colder conditions and the cost of keeping a home warm makes tackling damp and mould a health and housing priority. We all have a part to play.

Landlords must understand the importance of responding quickly when tenants report damp and mould.

In England, Awaab’s Law came into force for the social rented sector in October 2025. It requires social landlords to investigate significant damp and mould hazards and take action within specified timeframes. From 30 November this year, its scope will be extended to additional hazards, including excess cold.

Private renters also have stronger protections. The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 came into force for private renting in England on 1 May this year, introducing significant changes to the relationship between landlords and tenants. Local authorities have strengthened enforcement powers, including the ability to issue financial penalties where landlords fail to address serious hazards such as damp and mould.

For all landlords, the message is straightforward: take reports of damp and mould seriously, investigate them properly and address the underlying problem rather than simply treating the visible mould.

We also urge homeowners to take mould seriously and to ask for help if they run into problems sooner rather than later.

Know your rights

Allergy UK’s Housing Rights Guide offers guidance on reporting problems and understanding housing rights. We also offer help and advice on mould allergy.

Housing Rights Guide | Allergy UK | National Charity

Mould Allergy | Allergy UK | National Charity

Allergy UK Helpline – 01322 619 898

News – Aico