Damp, Mould and Condensation
Tackling damp and mould in residents’ homes is a huge priority for us
We take damp and mould seriously and encourage residents to contact us to report it to us as soon as they become aware there's a problem in their home so that we can carry out any treatment and repairs needed.
As an organisation, we take a zero-tolerance approach to the issue. This means that if any of our teams see - or become aware of - damp and mould in a property, they will report it as soon as possible and get the issue addressed.
You can find out more about our approach in our Damp and Mould Policy.
If we’ve arranged a wash and treatment in your home, please read our damp and mould wash treatment guidance ahead of our visit.
Awaab’s Law
Awaab’s Law came into effect from Monday 27 October. It has been named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who sadly died after being exposed to mould in his home.
Under the new law, social landlords like us must investigate and repair serious damp and mould within set timeframes and attend emergency issues within 24 hours.
At TCH, we’re already committed to fixing damp and mould as quickly as possible, but Awaab’s Law will develop how we do this.
About condensation
Mould grows on damp surfaces, and in many cases, it is caused by condensation.
Condensation occurs when moist warm air meets a cold surface. This mostly happens during cold weather and can cause mould and damp to accumulate where there’s limited airflow, for example in the corners of a room.
Condensation in your home can be managed to stop it becoming a problem – it’s less likely to occur in well-ventilated and warm homes.
We have put together some tips that can help prevent this from happening.
Tips and advice: reducing condensation, damp or mould
We have created a short video that provides some useful information about the causes of condensation, damp and mould and the things that can be done to prevent it.
Condensation is natural in everyone’s homes, especially as we all try to eliminate draughts and save money on heating bills.
What you can do to prevent damp and mould
We’re here to help if you’re experiencing damp and mould. There are also simple things you can do to help prevent it. Here are our top tips:
Good ventilation
Condensation is less likely to happen in well-ventilated homes.
Avoid covering air bricks or ventilation holes and keep extractor fans switched on and clear.
Leave a small gap between furniture and the wall to let air flow and try to avoid overfilling wardrobes and cupboards.
Open windows slightly, even for 10 minutes a day and make sure your window’s trickle vents (if you have them) are open and not blocked.
Reduce moisture
Managing humidity can help stop damp and mould from growing.
When you’re cooking, use lids on pans to help reduce steam and condensation in your kitchen. It also means you can turn down the heat on your hob, saving energy and money.
Use an extractor fan if you have one or open a window ideally for 20 minutes after you’ve finished cooking. You can also close kitchen doors to stop condensation spreading to other rooms.
If you use a tumble dryer, use a condensing one, or make sure the exhaust vent is installed properly. Don’t just let the hose hang out of a window.
Avoid drying clothes on radiators – it makes rooms more humid and harder to heat. Use an airer instead, and if possible, keep the room cool with a window slightly open and the door closed.
Dehumidifiers can help keep small spaces dry and also help clothes to dry quickly.
In the mornings, wipe your windows down, condensation often collects around the edges.
Control the temperature in your home
Having a low background heat is a good way to help cut down on the amount of condensation in your home.
Make sure you seal your doors and windows properly to help regulate the airflow and temperature in your home.
Close your blinds or curtains once it gets dark to help keep heat in. Remember to open them again during the day to help the airflow around your windows and doors.
Reduce moisture
Managing humidity can help stop damp and mould from growing.
How much moisture do we produce a day?
We produce a lot of moisture whilst completing simple everyday tasks. For example:
How to report damp and mould
If you require any further advice on condensation, damp or mould, please contact us.
Damp & Mould Wash Treatment Service
If you’ve reported damp or mould in your home, our team will review the issue and, where needed, visit your home to investigate and advise on next steps. In some cases, this may include arranging a wash and treatment to areas of visible damp and mould.
If a visit has been booked, here’s how you can help ahead of the appointment:
- Please make sure the affected area is clear before the member of our Repairs team arrives, so they can work safely and effectively.
- Their focus will be to clean and treat visible mould. They may also ask to check other areas of your home during the visit.
- At the end of the appointment, they will record their findings and note whether any further action may be needed.
- If we’re unable to gain access to your home, a calling card will be left with either a new appointment date or instructions on how to contact us if the repair is still required.
- If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call 01892 501480.