What is damp and mould?
What is damp?
Damp is the presence of excess moisture or wetness in a property. It is usually caused by condensation, leaks or rising damp from the ground. It can lead to mould growth.
Damp is usually caused by condensation or by leaks, such as:
- Leaking or broken pipes, wastes, drainage and overflows
- Rainwater from defective roof coverings
- Blocked or leaking gutters
- Penetrating dampness around windows, through walls and due to raised ground levels
- Rising damp due to lack of, or no effective, damp proof course
What is condensation?
‘Condensation dampness’ is a condition that is common in many homes. It is caused by water droplets in the air. There is always some moisture in the air, even if you cannot see it, and if the air gets colder, it cannot hold all the moisture and tiny drops of water appear. This is condensation.
Condensation is more likely in poorly heated or poorly insulated homes and usually gets worse in the colder winter months.
Condensation can often develop in kitchens and bathrooms. Moisture is released into the air through normal daily activities, such as washing, cooking, drying clothes, showering and bathing. Condensation can occur commonly on windows or external walls, or cold surfaces, especially north facing walls, corners, on or near windows, or behind wardrobes and cupboards.
What is mould?
Mould is a fungus. If there are any damp places in your home, you may get mould growth.
The development of mould growth is the most tell-tale sign that is frequently associated with damp and condensation. The appearance of mould may be black, white, yellow or green in colour, depending on the specific type of mould and the surface that it grows on.
Black spot mould forms pyramid shapes in wall corners and at wall/floor or wall/ceiling margins where the walls are damp.
Mould can be harmful to health and therefore must be reported straight away.
What can I do?
There are six steps you can take to tackle damp and mould in your home:
- Wipe down surfaces regularly, including window cills and frames, and the bathroom or kitchen tiles after use
- Move furniture away from walls
- Dry your clothes in ventilated spaces
- Close doors during bath or shower time, or when cooking and try to use pot lids
- Ventilate – open a window if it’s safe to do so, open trickle vents and turn on extractor fans
- Keep your home warm
If you think you have condensation, or damp and mould within your home, report it immediately.
