There are many different types of damp and mould. These are the most common.
Condensation
Condensation happens when your home is too humid and the warm air hits cold surfaces making it cool quickly.
| Signs of condensation | Tips to help prevent condensation |
|---|---|
| Water droplets on nearby surfaces such as walls and windows | Open windows regularly or put them on vent |
| Wet walls with peeling paint | Dry clothes outside or in a small room with the window open |
| Damaged plaster | Keep internal doors closed to stop moist air moving around the house |
| Keep a gap between furniture and walls for air flow to circulate |
Rising damp
This is when moisture from the ground travels up through the walls.
| Signs of rising damp | Tips for dealing with rising damp |
|---|---|
| Tide marks on the walls - these are yellow or brown marks or stains | Move furniture away from the area to allow air flow |
| Damp patches and staining above the skirting boards | Report it straight away so we can investigate |
| Peeling wallpaper starting from the skirting boards | |
| Black mould just above the skirting board |
Penetrating damp
This is when water is getting into the home through an external wall. This may be because of damaged bricks, windows or tiles, blocked gutters or leaks.
| Signs of penetrating damp | Tips for dealing with penetrating damp |
|---|---|
| Water stains on walls – these are dark marks on walls where the water has dried | Move furniture away from the area to allow air flow |
| Damp patches on walls or ceilings | Report it straight away so we can investigate |
| Wet and crumbly plaster | |
| Spores or black mould that are in one area | |
| Drips and puddles inside |