Preventing damp, mould and condensation
It’s important to monitor your home for issues that might be causing mould or damp such as any leaks or broken gutters. You can report these via MyHome or by speaking to one of our team in the customer contact centre. If you find mould or damp that’s being caused by condensation, we can advise you on how to ventilate, clean and redecorate the areas as well as providing some resources to help you get rid of it. Here are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the build-up damp and mould in your home.
How to reduce the amount of moisture in your home
COOKING
When cooking, keep lids on saucepans and open a window or use an extractor fan. You can also close the door to prevent damp air from travelling into other rooms.
WINDOW VENTILATION
Keep trickle vents open. They can usually be found at the top of your window frames if they’re fitted.
DEHUMIDIFIERS
Use dehumidifiers and moisture traps in problem areas to help reduce moisture in the air.
DRYING CLOTHES
Dry your clothes outside when you can or in a room with an extractor fan running or window open.
BATHING
When having a shower or bath, close the door and make sure you open a window or use your extractor fan so the damp air can escape.
CURTAINS/BLINDS
Open curtains or blinds during daylight hours to prevent the build-up of condensation on windows.
WIPE DAILY
Check windows for condensation daily and wipe them dry with a cloth.
EXTRACTORS
Turn on the extractor fan or open a window when bathing and Showering.
How to improve the airflow and the heating of your home
Try to maintain a temperature of 18-21 degrees in your home. Cold or sudden changes in temperature can cause the build-up of condensation.
If you’re struggling to pay for your heating or finding it hard to get right, our team can help. Get in touch to find out what support we can offer.
FURNITURE
Leave a gap between furniture and external walls
CUPBOARDS
Avoid over-filling cupboards and wardrobes
WINDOWS
Open windows at both ends of your home to let warm, wet air escape and let fresh air in.
What to do if you find damp
Condensation damp is the most common type of damp. It is usually caused by normal activities like cooking and bathing. It tends to appear in colder weather when the walls of your house are colder than the air inside.
Condensation damp is not a structural problem and can usually be treated by ventilating and heating the affected area.