What is condensation?
Condensation dampness is a common condition 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.
Common places you will find condensation:
-
windows or external walls
-
cold surfaces, especially north facing walls
-
corners
-
on or near windows
-
behind wardrobes and cupboards
Why does reducing condensation matter?
In some cases, damp and mould is caused by condensation. This happens when moist air cannot escape from your home because of a lack of insulation, ventilation or heating, or a combination of all of these things.
Your landlord (whether it is a private landlord, the Council or a housing association) should make sure everything is working to ensure moisture can escape, and reduce the risk of water vapour condensing against walls and windows, leading to damp.
There are some things you can do to reduce moisture in the air, which can help with condensation-related damp and mould. This can be especially effective if your house has lots of people living there, as more people means more water vapour is generated.
