Condensation and Mould Advice

What are the signs of condensation, damp and mould?

If your property is suffering from condensation and damp, you may notice the following indicators:

• Wallpaper starts to peel
• Damp patches appear on walls
• A build up of moisture on your windows
• Musty, damp smell
• Water runs down walls and windows
• Mould growth, most commonly on exterior walls
• Staining on walls

What can I do to prevent condensation, damp and mould?

There are several preventative measures you can take to help inhibit any condensation issues from appearing within your home:

• Ensure that any washing machines or tumble dryers are correctly vented.
• If possible, dry clothes outdoors to prevent excess moisture escaping into your property. If this is not possible, open doors or windows.
• When taking a shower or cooking, ensure that your kitchen or bathroom doors are closed to avoid excess moisture from escaping into other rooms.
• Cover your pans when cooking to avoid the steam from escaping where possible.
• Use an extractor fan, if you have one, when cooking or showering.
• Alternatively, open a window for at least 15-20 minutes.
• Cover fish tanks and move houseplants outdoors if necessary, as both pets and plants produce moisture.
• Wipe down and dry surfaces after you are finished using them in the kitchen or bathroom, as excess moisture can quickly turn to mould.
• Do not overfill wardrobes or cupboards- overfilled spaces such as these are breeding grounds for mould as the air cannot easily circulate.
• Keep furniture at least 50mm away from surrounding walls so that air can easily move around your property. Similarly, put wardrobes against internal walls, rather than external, if possible.
• Ensure that the property is adequately heated.
• Open the windows slightly in any rooms you regularly use.

What can I do to tackle condensation, damp and mould?

If your home has condensation-related issues, it is imperative to get these sorted as soon as you notice the signs. Here are some ways you can tackle the problem in the first instance:

• Wipe down affected walls and window frames with a fungicidal wash.
• Dry clean or machine wash mildewed clothes and shampoo mouldy carpets.
• Redecorate using fungicidal paint or if wallpapering, use a fungicidal resistant paste.

What can I do if the problem is more severe?

If the problem is more severe, you should contact us at Homemove Sales & Lettings as soon as possible, so that we can notify the landlord and consider any longer-term action that may be required. Call the office on 01925 405400 or email info@home-estateagents.co.uk