Damp, condensation and mould

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.

Why does reducing condensation matter?

In some cases, damp and mould is caused by condensation. Damp and mould that is caused by condensation generally happens when a property can't deal with normal levels of water vapour 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 ensure that everything is working to ensure moisture can escape, and reduce the risk of water vapour condensing against walls and windows, leading to damp.

In some cases, there are things you can do to minimise the water vapour that is 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.

Making sure everything is working in your property

Your home should have an extractor fan in the kitchen and bathroom to help steam escape. Make sure these are turned on and working. If they aren’t working, or your property does not have them, report this to your landlord.

If airbricks are installed in your property, make sure these are high up on the walls, and that they are not covered up or filled in.

Tips to reduce condensation

Image	Area	Tips
	General Advice	Open windows regularly to let fresh air in and moisture out. Keep trickle vents open if your windows have them. Keep your heating on low throughout the day, ideally at 18°C or higher. Do not dry clothes on radiators. Dry them outside or in the bathroom with the extractor fan on. Avoid using bottled gas heaters, as they create a lot of moisture. Leave space around furniture so air can move freely. Use small blocks if needed. Open cupboard and wardrobe doors occasionally to improve airflow. You can use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture, but it will not fix the cause of the problem. Draught-proof doors and windows, but never block ventilation in kitchens, bathrooms, or near fuel-burning appliances.
	Kitchen	Open a window when cooking. Use pan lids and only the minimum amount of water needed. Turn the heat down once water has boiled. Make sure tumble dryers vent outside, or use a condensing dryer. Never use a gas cooker to heat the kitchen. Keep the kitchen door closed while cooking.
	Bathroom	Open windows during and after showers or baths. Keep the bathroom door closed to stop moisture spreading to other rooms. Run cold water into the bath first, then add hot water to reduce steam.
	Bedroom	Leave space between wardrobes and walls to allow air to circulate. Place wardrobes against internal walls where possible. Improve airflow inside wardrobes by removing false backs or adding small ventilation holes. Do not overfill wardrobes or cupboards.