Damp, mould and condensation in your home
Damp, mould and condensation in your home
Understanding damp and condensation
Damp and mould are common issues in many homes. If left untreated, it can lead to property damage and even affect your health. The Council is here to help by providing guidance on the causes of dampness, how to prevent and manage it, and when and how to report persistent problems.
Dampness is often linked to condensation, which occurs when moisture in the air settles on cooler surfaces. Over time, this can lead to mould growth, peeling wallpaper, and damage to plasterwork. In addition, persistent damp and mould can be hazardous to health, particularly for children and individuals with underlying health issues such as asthma.
To prevent these problems from worsening, it’s important to identify and address any damp and condensation as soon as possible.
Types of dampness
There are three main types of dampness, each requiring different solutions:
- Penetrating damp occurs when water enters the property through external walls, roofs, or leaking internal pipes. This can lead to rot and structural damage.
- Rising damp is caused by moisture from the ground rising up through the fabric of the building, after being absorbed from the surrounding ground.
- Condensation is the most common type of dampness, occurring when warm, moist air meets cooler surfaces such as windows or walls. Condensation is completely normal and is more likely to occur colder months (September to May) when homes are less ventilated. However, it is important to address condensation once it occurs to prevent it from becoming a problem.
Signs of damp and mould
Be on the lookout for these common signs:
- A musty or damp smell
- Mould or mildew appearing on walls, floors, or ceilings
- Excessive condensation on windows
- Water pooling on windowsills or tiles
- Walls, floors or ceiling that feel cold or damp
- Peeling paint or plaster
- Yellow or brown damp patches or stains on walls
- Tide marks on walls (usually below one metre from the ground)
What causes damp and condensation?
Several factors can contribute to dampness and condensation in your home, including:
- Leaking pipes or roofs
- Rainwater entering the home
- Damaged or blocked drains and guttering
- Insufficient ventilation
- Inadequate heating
- Poor loft insulation
- High humidity and overcrowding
How to prevent damp, mould and condensation
Many day-to-day activities contribute to indoor moisture levels, such as cooking, drying clothes, and showering. To reduce condensation and prevent damp, follow these simple steps:
Reduce moisture
- Use lids on pots and pans when cooking
- Dry clothes outdoors when possible
- If drying clothes indoors, ensure the room is well-ventilated
- Avoid drying clothes on radiators
- Vent tumble dryers to the outside
- Wipe moisture off windows and sills every morning
Improve ventilation
- Open windows regularly to let fresh air circulate
- Keep vents and extractor fans clean and unobstructed
- Use extractor fans when cooking or bathing and close the doors to contain moisture
- Leave gaps between furniture and walls to improve airflow
- Avoid sealing windows in kitchens and bathrooms if they lack vents or extractor fan
Keep your home warm
- Maintain a consistent indoor temperature of 18-21°C where possible
- Avoid using paraffin or portable gas heaters, as they produce excess moisture
- Heating for only short periods may warm the air but not the walls, worsening condensation issues
- If you need support with heating costs, visit the Home Energy Advice webpage for assistance
Cleaning and treating mould
If you notice mould developing, clean the affected areas with a fungicidal solution to prevent it from spreading. Always wear protective gloves while cleaning mould.
Using extractor fans effectively
Extractor fans are essential in preventing condensation and are inexpensive to run (usually less than 1p per hour). To use them effectively:
- Switch on the fan when cooking or bathing and keep the door closed
- Allow the fan to run for at least 15 minutes after finishing to remove excess moisture
What if the problem persists?
If you’ve taken steps to reduce damp and mould but the problem persists, there may be an underlying issue that requires attention.
Reporting damp and mould
If you are a Council tenant and continue to experience damp or mould issues, contact us using the details at the bottom of this page. When reporting a problem, provide as much detail as possible, including
- the location and extent of the issue
- when you first noticed the problem
- any actions you have already taken to address it
Once your report is received, we will assess the urgency and place you on our waiting list. Due to high demand, there may be a delay before an appointment can be scheduled. The appropriate remedial action will depend on the severity and type of dampness present.
Smart sensors for monitoring damp
We are trialling the use of indoor air quality monitors and smart sensors that measure humidity and CO2 levels within our properties. These sensors provide real-time insights into home conditions, allowing us to take proactive steps to address potential damp issues. As part of our damp and mould management strategy, we may offer to install a sensor in your home.