Long term management of condensation, damp and mould

This guidance will help to prevent damp and mould in your home, or offer support if further treatment is needed after we have inspected and cleaned your home.

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Click here if this is your first time dealing with mould in your home.

 

 

Condensation is moisture caused by everyday living. Common signs of condensation include flaking paint and black mould. You'll usually see them in the corners of a room, on or near windows, and behind furniture.

We’ll go over some of the ways you can keep your home free from condensation, damp and mould.

You can also read our helpful leaflet here, our hints and tips guide. You can also find our damp and mould policy here

What causes damp? Back to top

  • Leaking pipes, wastes or overflows
  • Rain coming through leaking roofs and window frames
  • An overspill from a blocked gutter
  • Rising damp due to a faulty damp course or because there is no damp course
  • If your home has just been built, it may be damp because the water used during its construction (e.g. in the plaster) is still drying out

Ways to reduce moisture in the home Back to top

  • Put lids on saucepans while you’re cooking
  • Don’t leave kettles boiling
  • Open windows throughout the day
  • Turn on extractor fans while cooking
  • When you’re using the kitchen or bathroom, keep the doors closed.
  • Dry clothes outside rather than inside
  • If you use a tumble dryer, make sure it is vented to the outside
  • Do not run your shower or bath for longer than you need to. Put a small amount of cold water in the bath before you turn on the hot tap
  • Always mop up any condensation or water
  • Using a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture in the air

How to ventilate your home Back to top

  • Keep furniture away from the walls to let air circulate.
  • Don’t put too many items in your cupboards or wardrobes, as this stops air circulating.
  • Keep the trickle vents on your windows open.
  • Open a window and use extractor fans if you have them.

With the cost of living rising some are turning off devices in order to save money on energy bills, however this is dangerous and is not worth the small amount of money that could potentially be saved in comparison to the potential health risk. Take a look at our information on the cost of running ventilation devices

Tips on heating your home Back to top

  • In cold weather, a low level of warmth all day will reduce the risk of condensation and mould. It may also reduce your heating bills
  • Do not use bottled gas or paraffin heaters as these create moisture

How to remove mould Back to top

  1. Wash any affected walls and window frames with a fungicidal wash. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and make sure you wear rubber gloves and ventilate the room while cleaning.
  2. After treating the affected areas, redecorate using fungicidal paint to help stop mould reappearing.
  3. Dry clean clothes or fabrics affected by mould. Carpets should be shampooed. Brushing or vacuuming mould can increase the risk of respiratory problems.

By following these hints and tips, you shouldn’t have mould reappearing. The only permanent way to avoid severe mould is to reduce humidity and condensation in your home. You can do this through proper heating and ventilation. 

Insulation and draught-proofing can help keep your home warm, prevent condensation and reduce fuel bills. We will make sure that your home has an adequate level of roof insulation and cavity wall insulation. For homes with solid walls, external walls will be insulated.