Your home should be free from damp and mould problems. Most homes in the UK will get small isolated patches of mould spots during the winter.
It is very important that you try to stop damp problems getting so bad that they damage your health. Severe mould growth can be a health problem for people with asthma and other chest problems.
Stop mould from becoming a problem
Condensation is the most common form of damp in rented properties. Condensation appears when moisture in the air comes into contact with a cold surface, such as a window or a cold wall. Mould can then grow on damp walls and window frames.
There are many things you can and should do to help:
- keep a lid on pans when cooking
- use extractor fans provided
- dry clothes outdoors if possible
- keep the door closed and window open when drying clothes indoors
- keep your home properly and evenly heated - regular heating keeps the walls and other surfaces warm and reduces the risk of condensation
- don't try to brush or vacuum mould, as this releases it into the air and could make breathing problems worse
- treat mould growth to remove it and stop it getting worse - use a fungicidal wash, available from DIY shops or supermarkets
For more information see:
The cause of dampness should always be investigated. If you think that the damp and mould in your home is a result of a repair or construction issue and your landlord won’t help, contact us. We will ask you to complete the following form:
As part of our Tenants’ Charter commitment, the Council has adopted a strategy and action plan to help reduce incidences of damp and mould in homes in North Herts.