Keeping You Safe & Well

Damp And Mould

During the colder months, your home is more at risk of being affected by condensation, damp and mould.

As your landlord, we take the problem very seriously and if your home is affected, we are here to help. This page offers guidance and tips on how to best prevent the build-up of condensation, damp, and mould. If you are concerned or need more support, please get in touch.

What is mould?

Mould is caused by excess moisture and often forms in cooler points, such as:

  • Windows
  • The corners and edges of rooms
  • Behind and inside wardrobes and cupboards (especially if they are against an external wall)

It can even grow on clothes, handbags, and shoes if they are placed in wardrobes. This happens when we store them while they’re still damp or wet.

The good news is that most mould problems can be solved if you find where it is growing. You must first clear it away and then take steps to reduce the moisture that could be causing it to come back. We can help with every step of this process.

How to tackle small amounts of mould yourself

If you’re worried about mould, we can help if you get in touch with us.

However, if you feel confident to tackle a small amount yourself, here are some tips:

  • Use a domestic cleaning product or mould remover from a supermarket, DIY store, or high street retailer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions safely
  • Before you start open windows and close the door in the room you’re cleaning
  • Wear protective gloves and a face mask
  • After clearing the mould, clean all surfaces in the room to remove any spores that have spread
  • Dry all surfaces to remove excess moisture after cleaning

What not to do

  • Don’t use a vacuum cleaner on the affected area as this can cause transfer mould spores and make it spread
  • Don’t use bleach as this can sometimes make the situation worse
  • Don’t use washing-up liquid as it won’t be strong enough to do the job

Condensation

Condensation happens when moisture in the air meets a cold surface. A build-up of condensation in your home can lead to problems with mould. This can then impact your health and the condition of your home.

Top reasons why you may find moisture in your home include:

  • Heating water
  • Leaks
  • Cooking
  • Baths and showers
  • Drying laundry indoors.

Managing condensation, damp and mould

Managing mould and damp in your home is an ongoing process and there are three keyways you can get on top of it. Keep up these steps to stop new problems from happening and any old problems coming back.

You can’t avoid adding moisture into the air, for example when you cook or wash. But there are steps you can take to reduce moisture:

  1. Wipe condensation from your windows and sills each morning.
  2. Wring out wet cloths, rather than leaving them to dry on a radiator.
  3. Condensation channels/sponge strips can be fitted to windows. They collect moisture to stop frames from rotting. You should replace/empty these regularly.
  4. If you can, hang washing outside to dry. Keep balconies clear to avoid fire risk.
  5. Disposable dehumidifiers can help manage condensation over the winter months. If you can, put one in each bedroom, they can make a big difference.
  6. Avoid blocking radiator heat with wet clothes. It makes a big difference if you use a clothes horse or airer.
  7. If you do dry washing on a radiator, make sure you remove it once dry. If not, you’ll restrict the heat from the radiator heating your room and increase the likelihood of condensation.
  8. If you use a tumble dryer, make sure it is vented correctly or use a condenser dryer.
  9. Cook with pan lids on and turn the heat down when the water is boiling.
  10. Run the cold water in the bath first to reduce steam by 90%.
  11. When using the bathroom for a bath or shower, keep the door closed. This helps to prevent moisture escaping into other areas of the home.

Ventilating your home

Condensation builds up when moisture in the air cannot escape. You can take simple steps to prevent this by regularly ventilating your home.

  1. Keep a window open where possible, even if for a little while each day.
  2. Cross-ventilate by opening two windows at the same time on different sides of your home. Do this for around 30 minutes at a time. If inside room doors are open at the same time it helps air to circulate.
  3. When you use the bath or shower, keep the extractor fan running and the windows shut. Alternatively, you can open bathroom windows to allow moisture to escape.
  4. Make sure window vents are always open, especially when someone is in the room.
  5. Make sure air bricks aren’t obstructed.
  6. When you cook in the kitchen, use your cooker hood or fan if you have one. Alternatively, open a window and close doors to the rest of the house.
  7. If possible, place furniture against internal walls, not outside walls. Outside walls are much colder. Try and leave a gap between the wall and furniture to allow air to circulate around.

Take a look at this film from the for more tips on this area: