There are ongoing concerns about the development of damp, mould and condensation in properties across the UK. It is important to familiarise yourself with the signs and causes, and with what you can do to prevent them.

Contact Us

If you are experiencing condensation, damp or mould issues in your home, please report it to us at 020 8685 5777 (option 1) or repairs@haighousing.org.uk.

Damp
Signs:

Damp may appear as a dark, wet patch that may also cause flaky plaster and a pungent smell.

Causes:

Damp occurs when water finds its way into a property through:

  • Damaged gutter or blocked gutters
  • Broken roof tiles
  • Rising damp
  • Internal leaks

If black mould appears in your home and can’t be removed with mild bleach, please report this as a repair. Neglecting damp can cause mould to develop in your home.

Condensation
Signs:

Condensation occurs when water builds up in your home, usually due to high humidity in the air. It is not necessarily a result of any structural problems or building defects. You will see visible water droplets gathering on surfaces, usually on cold surfaces such as windows or walls.

Causes:

Several factors can contribute to condensation in your home. These can range from a lack of ventilation to plumbing faults.

Condensation
Signs:

Mould can appear in different colours, but it is often dark and spotty.

Causes:

Mould is a type of fungus that can form in damp conditions with insufficient airflow. It can be the result of both damp and/or condensation. Mould is very easy to remove if it is dealt with in the early stages. However, when mould is neglected, it can potentially cause breathing difficulties, especially in vulnerable people. It is important that you get in touch with us if you notice mould in your home and we will provide advice on how to deal with this.

What you can do to prevent damp / mould / condensation:

Good ventilation:

  • Keep trickle vents open
  • Keep the kitchen door closed when cooking
  • Keep lids on pots when cooking whenever possible

Use extractor fans when:

  • Cooking
  • Bathing
  • Drying clothes

Open windows / blinds when it’s sunny

Don’t block radiators with furniture

Don’t install wardrobes on an external wall of your home

Use heating systems effectively

  • Turn radiator valves to a lower setting in rooms that are not in use and on a higher setting in rooms that are being used