Bathroom (EE)

Condensation (for example, the water droplets that you can see on your windows) and damp can lead to mould. Condensation in the home is a very common moisture issue- and it's usually caused by everyday living. Condensation is the moisture that forms when warm, humid indoor air meets a cold surface and then turns into water droplets; it happens because everyday activities like cooking, showering and even breathing add moisture to the air, especially in homes that are not well ventilated. Over time, this excess moisture in the home can create problems such as black mould, damp smells and damage to walls, paint and furnishings. To prevent condensation and reduce the chance of mould growth in the home, the key is to reduce moisture, increase ventilation, and keep surfaces warm so moisture can’t settle.

Damp can pose health risks as it can lead to high humidity and mould growth. Breathing in mould spores can cause respiratory problems and can worsen existing health conditions such as allergies and asthma. Some groups of people, such as children and babies and people with medical conditions such as asthma, can be at greater risk, so it is important to tackle damp and mould.

Treating black mould safely and effectively involves cleaning it away, removing the moisture source, and preventing it from returning.

Free Reduce humidity in the home by keeping lids on pans when cooking, and avoiding drying clothes indoors where possible. Improving ventilation, such as opening windows briefly each day, keeping trickle vents open, or ensuring air can circulate behind furniture, helps moist air escape instead of settling on cold surfaces.

£ Use extractor fans when cooking or showering. You may also want to trial dehumidifier pots or moisture traps, which can be purchased at relatively low cost. To clean away mould: black mould can irritate the airways and skin, so wear gloves, a mask, long sleeves and eye protection if possible when you are cleaning away mould. Make sure you open windows for ventilation while cleaning. Use a mould specific cleaner: products labelled mould remover or fungicidal wash are often the most effective because they kill the spores, rather than just removing stains. To clean the area, gently wipe the mould (don’t scrub hard as this can spread spores). Apply the cleaner as directed and leave it to work for the recommended time. Wipe the area clean with warm soapy water and then dry the area thoroughly.

££ Although it might increase the cost of your power bill, maintaining gentle, consistent heating prevents walls and windows from becoming cold enough for condensation to form. Using dehumidifiers, installing positive‑input ventilation (PIV) units, or upgraded extractor fans can also help manage moisture levels effectively. It may also be important to understand what is causing persistent mould, if good ventilation is not working: you may want to talk to a professional to see if there are any underlying structural problems in your home which are contributing to problems with damp and mould. Check out the Good Home Lincs pages on Finding Trusted Tradespeople

If you rent your home, you may not be responsible for meeting these costs. Shelter has information on your landlord’s responsibilities Damp and mould in private rented homes

Read the Good Home Lincs Guide to condensation, damp and mould

Check out the Good Home Lincs information on Common hazards to find out more about how to manage damp and mould in your home.