Damp and mould – what is it?

There are two main causes of damp and mould:

Penetrating damp – this is usually a leak for example a burst pipe, leaking roof etc. You usually see a “tidemark” around the area of damp and drips of water. If the leak/source of the damp is not addressed, the area of dampness may increase and lead to mould growth and damage to the property such as crumbling wall plaster. The problem will only be resolved if it can be identified where the water is coming from and the landlord undertakes the necessary repairs.

Condensation damp and mould – this is caused by moisture in the air coming into contact with a cold surface such as a window, external wall etc. Very often it is worse in the winter months. Over time this leads to black mould on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, furniture, clothing etc. Problems with condensation and mould growth are more likely to occur when a property is insufficiently ventilated or heated, or when the property is poorly insulated.

See further information below about damp and mould caused by condensation and the steps that landlords and tenants can take to help prevent or reduce the problem.