Damp, condensation and mould

Damp and mould: what can I do?

Damp and mould can affect your health and your home, so it's important to act quickly if
you spot it.

Cold homes increase the risk of damp. Keep your property warm as much as you can and follow the following advice or check out this infographic (PDF.)

How to prevent damp and mould

There are simple things you can do to reduce moisture, improve ventilation and prevent damp and mould in your home.

These tips may help reduce moisture in your home, but damp and mould are not always caused by how a home is used. Problems with the building, heating, insulation, ventilation or leaks can also cause damp and mould. If you report damp or mould to us, we will investigate the cause and take appropriate action.

General tips

Ventilate your home

  • open windows regularly
  • occasionally open cupboards and wardrobes so air can circulate
  • keep trickle vents open – these are small, manually adjustable ventilation slots built into the top of window or door frames

Manage moisture

  • don’t dry clothes on radiators
  • avoid bottled gas heaters
  • use a bathroom extractor fan or a dehumidifier if you have them

Maintain airflow and warmth

  • keep heating on low at around 18°C or higher. If you are finding it difficult to afford to heat your home, please contact us so that we can help you find appropriate support.
  • leave space around furniture
  • draught-proof doors and windows without blocking essential vents

Check that everything that can help works

  • your home should have an extractor fan in the kitchen and bathroom to help steam escape. Make sure these are turned on. 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

Kitchen

Improve ventilation

  • open a window when cooking
  • keep the kitchen door closed to stop moisture spreading

Cook to reduce steam

  • use pan lids and minimal water
  • turn the heat down once water has boiled

Use appliances safely

  • make sure tumble dryers vent outside, or use a condenser dryer
  • never use a gas cooker to heat the kitchen

Bathroom

Ventilate

  • open windows during and after showers and baths

Contain moisture

  • keep the bathroom door closed to stop damp air spreading to other rooms

Reduce steam

  • when filling the bath, run cold water first, then add hot water

Bedroom

Allow air to circulate

  • leave space between wardrobes and walls
  • avoid overfilling wardrobes or cupboard
  • position furniture carefully: place wardrobes against internal walls where possible

Improve wardrobe ventilation to increase air flow

  • remove false backs
  • add small ventilation holes

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