Damp, mould and condensation advice
Everyday activities in your home can lead to damp, condensation and mould forming.
It’s important to take early action to prevent it becoming serious.
Risks to your health
Living with damp and mould can cause serious and long lasting heath issues. This is particularly for people with certain health conditions.
Damp and mould can affect breathing and the airways.
Some of the more common symptoms caused are:
- cough
- wheeze
- shortness of breath
- infections
- worsening of asthma
- eczema and fungal infections
If you’re concerned that damp and mould may be affecting your health you should contact a healthcare professional.
Condensation
It’s normal to find condensation, especially during the colder months.
If left untreated it can lead to problems such as:
- black marks or mould growth
- staining of wallpaper and wall surfaces
- damage to window frames, furniture and clothing
Tips to help reduce condensation
- Try to keep your home between 18 and 21°C as this will reduce condensation from forming on cold surfaces. If you’re struggling with your heating and energy bills, there is support available
- Condensation in the home occurs when there is too much moisture in the air. Make sure vents and air bricks are not obstructed. If you are cooking or bathing open windows to reduce steam, put lids on pots, close the door and use extractor fans. Leave them open for 20 minutes after (if safe to do so)
- Dry washing outside where possible. If you need to dry clothes indoors, leave a window open and close the door
- Wipe down condensation from windows, walls and other surfaces like shower doors and tiles
Mould
Mould will form if condensation is not wiped down and removed.
You can prevent mould becoming a serious problem or damaging your possessions by wiping down with a mould spray as soon as you notice it.
Watch this short video on how to help prevent mould in your home.
Mould growth can lead to serious health issues if left untreated
Condensation is not the only cause of damp. It can also come from:
- leaking water pipes, waste pipes and overflows
- rain penetrating gaps in the brickwork, roof, window frames and around doors
- defects in guttering and pipes, faulty flashings, poor pointing and cracked rendering
- rising damp that can cause stained plaster, peeling wallpaper, rotten skirting boards and floors
Report damp and mould
If you’re in a council home
You can request a repair online.
We’ll come and visit you and see how we can help.
If you’re in private rented accommodation
You should talk to your landlord or letting agent.
If your landlord or letting agent is unwilling to help, report a rental property to us
