London among the worst for unresolved mould complaints in the UK
UK councils received a staggering 25,134 complaints about mould and damp in 2024, marking a 35.06% increase from the previous year, new data reveals.
While commonly associated with colder months, experts warn that mould can also thrive during hot and humid periods, when increased moisture and poor airflow create ideal conditions for growth.
The report, conducted by online prescription service UK Meds, analysed data from freedom of information requests to local councils. The figures, which cover both private and social housing, paint a worrying picture of the UK’s ongoing housing crisis. Complaints of damp and mould in London made up 24% of the total number of complaints nationwide, with the capital being the second most affected region in the UK.
London and the North West are the only two regions to have recorded over 6,000 complaints to local councils as a result of mould or damp issues, and no other regions recorded above 3,000 complaints.
The findings reveal that the number of recurring cases has more than doubled, rising by 127.36% in just one year. In total, more than 13,781 homes are still dealing with unresolved mould or damp issues. London is the region with the second highest number of currently unresolved cases (2,311).
The new study also found that the number of mould-related incidents severe enough to render homes uninhabitable rose by 103.28%, from 61 cases in 2023 to 124 in 2024.
Where are mould and damp complaints worst?
The regions with the highest number of complaints in 2024 include:
North West – 7,534 complaints
London – 6,087 complaints
Yorkshire and the Humber – 2,724 complaints
Wales – 2,284 complaints
East Midlands – 2,032 complaints
These regions currently have the highest number of unresolved cases:
South West – 3,466 unresolved cases
London – 2,311 unresolved cases
East Midlands – 2,149 unresolved cases
Yorkshire and the Humber – 2,087 unresolved cases
Wales – 1,031 unresolved cases
The impact of mould and damp on health
Dr. Alexis Missick, a GP working with UK Meds, warns that mould should be treated as a serious health hazard. She says:
“Mould is more than just an eyesore, it can be extremely harmful, especially for children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions like asthma.
“Prolonged exposure to damp and mould can lead to persistent coughing, wheezing, and skin irritation. In more severe cases, it can cause long-term damage to lung health.
“With complaints rising so sharply, it’s clear that action is needed at both local and national levels. We urge councils, landlords, and tenants to prioritise early prevention, proper ventilation, and swift intervention where mould is discovered.”
