Damp, condensation and mould

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There are four main types of damp that can affect a property. Understanding the differences will help you identify the cause and take appropriate action.

Rising Damp

Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels upwards through walls.

• Caused by a failed or missing Damp Proof Course (DPC)
• Typically affects ground floor rooms or basements only
• Usually visible up to around 300–600mm above floor level
• May leave a visible “tide mark” and white salt deposits

If left untreated, rising damp can cause plaster to deteriorate and wallpaper to peel.

Penetrating Damp

Penetrating damp is caused by water entering the property from outside.

Common causes include:

• Damaged brickwork or pointing
• Cracked render
• Missing roof tiles

Appears as damp patches on walls or ceilings, often more noticeable after rainfall.

This type of damp usually indicates a maintenance issue that should be reported to your landlord or agent.

Defective Plumbing

Leaks from internal plumbing systems can also cause damp.

• Common in kitchens and bathrooms
• Affects both walls and ceilings
• Remains damp regardless of weather conditions

Check:

• Pipework under sinks
• Seals around baths and showers
• External pipework (e.g. guttering)

Report any leaks promptly to prevent further damage.

Condensation (Most Common)

Condensation is the most common cause of damp in homes.

• Occurs when warm, moist air meets a cold surface
• Leads to water droplets forming on windows and walls
• Often results in black mould growth

Common in:

• Bedrooms
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Window frames and corners

While condensation cannot always be eliminated, there are practical steps you can take to significantly reduce it.

1. Reduce Moisture in the Air

Everyday activities create moisture.

To reduce this:

• Dry clothes outdoors where possible
• If drying indoors:
  • Use a ventilated room (e.g. bathroom)
  • Keep doors closed and windows slightly open
• Use tumble dryers with external ventilation or condenser models
• Cover pans when cooking
• Avoid leaving kettles boiling unnecessarily
• Avoid using paraffin or bottled gas heaters

2. Remove Excess Moisture

• Wipe down windows and sills each morning
• Focus on high-moisture areas (bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms)
• Consider using dehumidifiers in problem areas

3. Ventilate Your Home

Ventilation is essential to reduce moisture build-up.

• Open windows regularly (even slightly)
• Use trickle vents where installed
• Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms

You can ventilate effectively without significantly cooling your home.

4. Maintain Consistent Heating

• Keep a steady, low level of background heating
• Avoid short bursts of high heat
• Consistent warmth helps prevent condensation forming

5. Insulation and Draught Proofing

Improving insulation helps:

• Keep your home warmer
• Reduce cold surfaces where condensation forms
• Improve energy efficiency

Safely Removing Black Mould

Mould should be removed carefully to avoid spreading spores.

Steps to follow:

• Remove mould gently with a damp cloth
  • Dispose of the cloth after use
  • Avoid brushing mould (this releases spores)
• Clean affected areas using:
  • A fungicidal wash, or
  • Diluted bleach solution

Always:

• Wear gloves
• Consider eye protection
• Test cleaning products on a small area first

Natural Cleaning Option

You may use a natural solution such as:

• A mixture of tea tree oil and water
• Apply to affected areas, wipe, then rinse

After Treatment

• Allow surfaces to dry fully
• Use anti-mould or fungicidal paint where appropriate
• Do not paint over mould without proper treatment
• Dry clean affected fabrics and clean carpets if needed

 

Important: When to Report Damp and Mould

While tenants can manage condensation, some issues must be reported. You should contact your landlord or agent if:

• Damp patches appear suddenly or worsen
• Mould persists despite cleaning and ventilation
• There are signs of leaks and/or structural damp (rising or penetrating damp)

Landlords are responsible for addressing structural issues and serious hazards, including damp that affects health.

Additional support with cost of living challenges

• If you are struggling with energy costs you can find advice and support at: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-households
• There is a Priority Services Register to provide extra help to those in vulnerable situations: ofgem.gov.uk/get-help-your-supplier-priorityservices- register
• Information about Cost of Living Payments can be found at: gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment
• Grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 are available to eligible lowincome homeowners and private tenants as part of the Warmer Homes programme: warmerhomes.org.uk/eligibility