UK Regions Most Affected By Mould and Damp

This research was conducted by healthcare treatment providers UK Meds. Please credit the research by linking back to the webpage if using the data.

Despite its strong association with the colder months, mould is just as capable of thriving in the warmer seasons, when increased moisture and poor airflow create ideal conditions for growth. With rising concerns about the state of UK housing, we wanted to understand just how widespread mould and damp issues have become.

To investigate, we submitted freedom of information (FOI) requests to local councils across the country, gathering new data on the number of mould-related complaints in recent years.

The results reveal a worrying trend: a sharp increase in reports of damp and mould, with many households facing repeated problems or even uninhabitable living conditions. In particular, regions such as the North West and London are bearing the brunt of the crisis, highlighting deepening regional disparities and growing pressure on local authorities.

Key Takeaways

1. Mould and damp complaints in UK homes are rising fast

In 2024, over 25,000 complaints were made to councils – a 35% increase from the year before. London and the North West were the worst affected areas.

2. Many cases are serious and still unresolved

More than 13,000 homes still have mould problems, with some now classed as uninhabitable. Recurring complaints have more than doubled in just one year.

3. Mould is a real health risk, especially for vulnerable people

Mould can cause coughing, wheezing, skin problems, and serious lung issues. If you spot mould, report it to your landlord or council, and speak to your GP if you feel unwell.

Total number of mould and damp complaints

Mould and damp issues are widespread. UK councils received a staggering 25,134 complaints about mould and damp in 2024 - a 35.06% increase on the previous year.

The number of recurring cases has also 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.

The 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 the worst?

The North West and London recorded the highest volumes of complaints in 2024, with London seeing a near 97% increase year-on-year.

Which region has the highest number of unresolved cases?

Recurring mould cases spiked in multiple regions, most notably in the East Midlands, South East, and Yorkshire and the Humber.

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.”

What should tenants do if they face mould issues?

If you’re living in a property affected by mould or damp:

• Report the issue to your landlord or local council immediately

• If the landlord doesn't act, escalate the issue to the local authority's environmental health team

• Use dehumidifiers and keep windows open when possible

• Contact your GP if you develop any respiratory or skin symptoms