Having recently moved out of the 1-bedroom flat on Manchester Road, currently advertised on Zoopla, I feel it is important to share my experience for the benefit of prospective tenants.
The main issue throughout my tenancy was persistent damp, mould and excessive humidity. These problems were reported repeatedly over more than 2.5 years. Whilst remedial works were eventually carried out, including replacing a bathroom extractor fan that had been venting moisture into the property rather than outside, and adding ventilation vents to the living room and bedroom, the underlying issue was never fully resolved. Both the landlord and letting agency were aware that these measures would improve the situation but not eliminate it.
The extent of the problem was demonstrated by the original blinds in both the living room and bedroom becoming covered in black mould spots. After several months, they were replaced with plastic blinds to prevent the humidity damaging them again.
Even after the works, I still had to keep windows open regularly and run a dehumidifier almost constantly, often removing around 2 litres of water from the air every day. The flat, located within an old Victorian building with very high ceilings, was also difficult and expensive to heat, often feeling cold and damp even during milder weather.
Despite being a low-maintenance tenant who paid rent on time and looked after the property, I was extremely disappointed by the end-of-tenancy process. Before check-out, I thoroughly cleaned the flat, including hiring a Rug Doctor to clean the carpets. Nevertheless, £92 was deducted from my deposit for "light cleaning and mould removal".
The photographs provided by the agency showed only minor traces of dirt that could easily have been wiped away and did not, in my view, justify a professional cleaning charge. Given the long-standing and documented mould issues, I found the mould removal charge particularly unreasonable.
Communication was also poor, especially from Jodie, property manager. I had to chase multiple times for the check-out report, which was only provided 12 days after I returned the keys, delaying the return of my deposit. My concerns were only addressed after escalating the matter to senior management.
Overall, after years of dealing with damp, mould, humidity and a cold property, I feel very let down by the way the tenancy was concluded. Based on my experience, I would not recommend this property or the agency managing it. read more
