How to keep your home free from damp and mould

Reduce moisture

• Dry clothes outside if possible. If drying indoors, use a bathroom with the door closed and ensure good ventilation (open a window or use an extractor fan).
• Wipe down any condensation from areas such as windows and bathrooms walls as soon as you see it.
• If using a tumble dryer, ensure it is vented outside.
• Keep doors closed when cooking, showering or doing anything that creates moisture.

Keep your home warm

Ensure you heat your home to prevent damp. Maintain a temperature of at least 18 degrees centigrade on cold days.

Improve ventilation

Ensure your home is well ventilated, particularly during and after moisture-producing activities.

• Use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Ensure these are working correctly
• Do not block up air vents, chimneys or flues - they help air circulate
• Leave space between the back of furniture to prevent trapped moisture
• Open windows on dry days to let fresh air in.

Removing black mould

Mould spores exist naturally in the air but only become visible when they grow on damp surfaces.

To remove mould:

1.  Wipe off as much mould as possible with a damp cloth (dispose of it after use) or use a vacuum cleaner (empty it immediately).
2. Clean affected areas with a fungicidal wash. Use bleach-based products only on hard surfaces, such as UPVC and glass. Wear gloves and safety glasses when cleaning.
3. After treating walls and ceilings, redecorate using a suitable anti-mould paint. Regular paint won't prevent mould from returning.
4. Dry clean clothes and shampoo carpets if they have mould.

If you don’t remove mould completely (and take steps to reduce condensation), it may return.

More information

• Find out more about  Controlling condensation and mould (PDF 683KB)

How to report damp and mould

If you’ve followed these steps and still have damp or mould, you can report the problem.