PREVENTING DAMP & MOULD
To ensure you’re able to fully enjoy your home, you’ll want to keep it free of damp and mould. We’re sure you're already aware of most of these suggestions but it’s always worth having a refresh!
There are three types of damp that typically appear in homes:
Condensation
Generally condensation isn’t something to worry about, it’s normal for it to appear on cold windows overnight in a bedroom or while the heating is on. It’s caused when the air indoors can’t hold any more moisture. However, if you find it’s happening constantly or on cold walls it could potentially create mould. There are key areas in homes where this can happen, mainly the kitchen and the bathroom.
By following these simple tips you’ll avoid one of the main causes of damp and mould.
Tenant’s responsibilities:
• Using an appropriate cleaning product at regular intervals
• Putting lids on pans and using an extractor fan when cooking or showering
• Not hanging wet clothes on radiators or drying clothes indoors at all, if possible
• Running a reasonable amount of heating in the house
• Keeping vents on UPC windows open
• Ensuring that furniture is not preventing air flow by being placed against walls or in front of radiators
Daily routines can contribute to damp and mould around the house. Here's how to prevent issues arising:
SIMPLE PREVENTATIVE STEPS
Drying clothes
Hanging wet clothes on radiators increases the moisture in the air which then flows around the house, collecting on cold surfaces and contributing to the growth of mould. To avoid this, dry clothes using a tumble dryer if provided, on a portable heated plug-in airer with a cover or on any airer in a well-ventilated space with an open window or dehumidifier to draw moisture in from the air.
Air needs to flow, even in cold weather
The average person breathes out approximately two litres of water every 24 hours and an average family of four will generate nearly 14 litres of water a day during cooking, washing, drying clothes and bathing. Historically this vapour would have naturally escaped, however measures such as double glazing and insulation now trap that moisture inside the house.
External windows and trickle vents need to be opened regularly to allow fresh air to circulate. Without opening windows moisture builds up and creates mould on cold surfaces like walls.
Likewise, if furniture is placed directly against walls or radiators, or if cupboards or wardrobes are solidly packed with possessions air is prevented from circulating, contributing to damp conditions. Heating systems The World Health Organisation Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould (See more information) recommends keeping rooms between 18c – 20c. Having heating regularly on, even at a low temperature, helps to prevent damp and mould. For any advice on thermostats or heating controls, speak to your letting agent.
Make use of extractor fans provided
Running a hot shower or bath, or boiling water for cooking creates steam and additional moisture in the air which circulates and collects on cold surfaces around the house. Putting an extractor fan on where provided, throughout and following showers and cooking creates a vacuum effect. Moisture is pulled out of the air into the fan and released outside through vents or pipes. If you need any advice or adjustments to extractor fans speak to your letting agent.
Use a dehumidifier
A dehumidifier pulls moisture in from the air, thereby reducing vapour and dampness that is generated by, for example drying clothes. Portable dehumidifiers are widely available at different price points through online and high street retailers. Add plants to lower humidity levels
Several groups of houseplants have characteristics that help to reduce humidity levels including the peace lily, ferns, orchids, palms and spider plants.
Remove pooling moisture to prevent build up It is important to note that any condensation or surface dampness that collects on windows or walls, should be wiped with a clean cloth or towel daily. This will minimise the subsequent appearance of any black mould.
Check for penetrating damp
If you see evidence of leaks from plumbing or from a damaged roof, chimney or guttering which is causing water supply to penetrate the property or repeatedly flow against walls, contact your agent. Repairs should be dealt with promptly to prevent more complex damage occurring. While waiting for the repair, limit any internal impact by drying surfaces and collecting leaks in a bucket or other container.
REMOVAL AND CLEANING
It is very common for mould spots to appear in houses around windows and in bathrooms and kitchens where increased water is circulating and gathering during washing and cooking. Occupiers should dry any wet surfaces regularly and treat signs of mould either with mould and mildew cleaning products which are widely available from supermarkets and household retailers or with a white vinegar based DIY treatment. Wear a face mask to prevent the inhalation of spores, take care to ventilate the room and protect your skin and follow manufacturers’ instructions for any commercial cleaning products.
Alert your letting agent if you have concerns. Sometimes there may be a previously unknown defect in the building which the Landlord can then address and they can review whether trickle vents are operating effectively.
NB: Your letting agent is there to provide reasonable support with any issues arising from your tenancy and will listen to concerns and organise for an expert to assess for defects where appropriate. Please be aware that high energy prices are beyond the control of your letting agent.
The other types of damp are:
Penetrating damp
Penetrating damp generally occurs when there is an internal leak or plumbing issue within a property, with water coming through the walls or roof.
Rising damp
Rising damp is a problem most often found in older houses, where moisture in the earth below it is drawn up into the bricks or concrete at the bottom of the house.
If you see either of these please report it to us as quickly as possible so we can look into it.