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Condensation and damp

There is nothing more important than you and your family’s health.

Damp and mould can be very upsetting, bad for your health and for your home.
It is often just caused by condensation and there are many steps (listed below) that you can take to help with this. But sometimes it can be the result of a problem with the building, such as a leak, so we do need to know. We can then send out a surveyor to visit your home, diagnose the problem and undertake any necessary remedial action.

Why do condensation and damp form?

Condensation can be a problem in any property, no matter how old it is. It can be a particular problem during the winter when the weather is cold and wet.

It happens when moisture meets a cold surface, it turns into droplets of water, often causing misting/dampness on windows and windowsills in the first instance. But if left, it can develop into patches of black mould growing on your walls and ceilings.

Activities like cooking, showering and drying clothes all create moisture in your home but taking the following steps can help to reduce it.

Importantly, many of these steps will also keep energy costs down too.

Windows

 
  • Open windows (even if for 15 minutes a day) to allow moist air to escape
  • Wipe down windows and windowsills to remove condensation
  • If you have trickle vents in your window, make sure they are left open at all times

In the kitchen

 
  • Cover pans and close internal doors while you’re cooking
  • Always use the extractor fan
  • Don’t leave your kettle boiling

 

Drying clothes

 
  • Drying clothes outside is ideal, but not always possible in winter
  • If you are drying clothes inside, consider buying a dehumidifier. These can cost as little as £20

In the bathroom

 
  • Close the bathroom door when having a shower or bath
  • Take shorter showers
  • Always use the bathroom extractor fan

 

Heating your home

 
  • Keep your home at a constant heat of around 18°C if you can
  • A low background heat all day is better than short bursts of high heat
  • Leave gaps between furniture and external walls

 

How to remove mould

You can remove mould by wiping down any affected areas with a fungicidal wash or with baking powder. Avoid brushing or vacuuming the area, as this can make it spread, and do not use bleach or washing up liquid, as this can also make things worse.

If you have any issues with damp or mould in your home, please report it by contacting our customer services team on 0113 278 3335.  

 

Frequently asked questions

What is condensation?

Condensation is a gathering of tiny water droplets which gather on surfaces like windows and mirrors. It has the appearance of mist or fog. Condensation occurs when warm air contacts with a cold surface. Often this is caused by everyday activities such as having a shower, cooking, drying clothes, and even moisture produced by breathing. 

What is the difference between condensation and damp?

Condensation and damp can both cause mould, damage to clothes, furnishings and decoration, and leave a musty smell. However, damp tends to leave a 'tide mark' on the wall. Condensation is more easily remedied, whereas it can be necessary to make changes to the building work to tackle damp.  

What can I do to reduce condensation?

There are a number of things that you can do to help reduce condensation. These include:

  • Opening windows to ventilate your home (just opening them by a crack can often be enough)

  • Ensuring your home is heated to at least 19 degrees 

  • Opening windows when cooking or after showering. If you don't have windows in these rooms, an extractor fan should be used.

  • Not drying clothes on radiators or inside. If this can't be avoided, ensure the windows are opened when possible.

Please note that we would not recommend leaving windows open when there isn't anyone at home. 

 

My condensation won't go away. What should I do?

If you have tried putting the above tips into practice for a few weeks and are still not noticing any improvement, please get in touch with us for advice. 

I'm sure it's damp. What should I do?

You should try practicing the tips above for treating condensation, because they can also help with damp. 

If you notice no improvement within a few weeks you should contact us for further advice.