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Mould Complaint or Lack of Ventilation? How Your Move-In Condition Report Settles Awaab's Law Disputes

Complaints about dampness and mould have always been the most contentious issues when it comes to renting in the UK. While landlords will always think that it is because of unvented clothes drying or blocked trickle vents, tenants usually complain that there are building problems or poor insulation. Considering the introduction of Awaab's Law, there is no room for assumptions.

Carrying out a thorough walkthrough using our free condition report software gives letting agents and landlords an undeniable baseline record before keys are handed over, proving exactly what state the property was in on day one.

Auditing Ventilation Risk Areas at Move-In

To be able to settle future disputes, a move-in inspection should take more than just the cosmetic appearance into account. You will require documentation that provides proof of any areas at high risk of moisture:

• Extractor Fans: Test whether kitchen and bathroom extraction fans are fully operational, clean, and pulling air properly.
• Trickle Vents and Windows: Document that the window trickle vents are open, undamaged, and free from dirt or obstruction.
• Silicone Seals and Paintwork: Take close-up photos of window sills, shower mastic, and bathroom ceilings to prove there is no pre-existing staining or blown plasterwork.
• Heating Infrastructure: Confirm that all radiators are working and that heating controls function correctly so tenants can keep rooms adequately warmed.

If a mould complaint arises six months into a tenancy, having this exact evidence makes it easy to see whether a structural defect developed or if indoor moisture buildup stems from lifestyle factors like drying laundry on unheated radiators.

Turning Inspection Notes into Ombudsman-Ready Proof

With regards to the existing policy of Housing Ombudsman, any sort of loose language, such as “bathroom fine” is automatically rejected right off the bat during the dispute. It is a requirement for adjudicators to have dated photos backed up with thorough descriptions.

With the use of our mobile application at Reports2Go, the creation of a comprehensive condition report is done in no time, right from your site. You can easily utilise AI descriptions and the Intelligent Keyboard Engine™ to choose suitable terminology according to the type of property being assessed or even use device speech-to-text if you want to dictate your notes while keeping your hands free. This creates a transparent, time-stamped paper trail that keeps communication clear and protects both parties if a damp complaint escalates.

Streamline Your Move-In Inspections Today

Keep your assets safe and be proactive when it comes to new regulations. Get the Reports2Go mobile app now for free on iOS or Android or schedule a demo session with us and learn how easy our reports make your property visits.

Dan, 28 August 2026