A new poll reveals that 88% of tenants have had problems in rental properties and more than a quarter (26%) were unhappy with their landlord’s response.

According to Saga, their biggest headache is mould and damp, with almost two in three (64%) tenants affected, followed by maintenance and repairs (53%), a broken boiler (29%), pests (28%), gas and fire safety (16%), and burglary (6%).

It says Labour’s pledge to immediately abolish no-fault evictions should empower private tenants to complain or take action against landlords and property issues, without fear of being evicted.

However, expert Anna Thunstrom (pictured) explains that both landlords and tenants can do their bit to mitigate problems.

"Although mould and damp is the landlord’s responsibility if caused by property faults, such as inadequate insulation or faulty heating systems, tenants should keep condensation to a minimum by making sure their home is well ventilated, using extractor fans when cooking or showering and opening windows to help reduce condensation.

Damages

"If the tenant is responsible for causing a fire, then the landlord could ask them to pay for damages, says Thunstrom. “Renters’ insurance offers cover in such scenarios.

"Tenants’ liability cover can also typically cover the cost of damage to the landlord’s possessions, however most policies will unlikely cover extensive fire damage. The landlord’s buildings insurance policy would offer more cover if in the case of extensive damage.”

In the case of burglary, while landlords must ensure their property is secure and repair any damages immediately, a tenant might be liable if they didn’t lock a door securely or left a window open, which can even invalidate their landlord’s insurance and their own.