Protect your home and health by tackling mould and condensation | Tenant news

If left unchecked, mould can cause serious harm to both your home and your health.

In 2023, a two-year-old boy named Awaab Ishak died due to prolonged exposure to mould and damp in his home.

As a result of his death, Awaab’s Law will come into effect in October 2025 and will require landlords to act quickly to protect tenants from the harmful effects of mould.

There are also steps you can take to help keep your home dry and mould-free.

Why mould appears

Mould thrives in damp conditions when moisture builds up inside a home and has nowhere to escape. The most common causes of this are:

• Poor ventilation: Without proper airflow, moisture gets trapped inside, creating the perfect conditions for mould growth.
• Cold temperatures: Warm air holds more moisture, and when it comes into contact with cold surfaces, condensation forms, which can lead to mould.
• Everyday activities: Cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors all release moisture into the air. If this moisture isn’t properly managed, it can settle on walls and windows, contributing to mould formation.
  
  

Protecting your home

There are several habits you can cultivate to minimise moisture build-up and reduce the risk of mould in your home.

1. Keep your home well-ventilated

Make sure to air out your home regularly, especially after cooking, showering, or drying clothes inside.

Open windows or use extractor fans to let the moisture escape. Keep the fans running for a few extra minutes to clear out any leftover dampness.

2. Maintain a steady temperature

Keeping your home between 18°C and 21°C will help prevent condensation from forming.

Even if you only run your heating on low, this can make a big difference in keeping the air in your home warm and dry.

3. Control moisture levels

Wipe down wet surfaces, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, where moisture tends to build up.

Cover pots while cooking to reduce steam, and close kitchen and bathroom doors to prevent steam from spreading throughout the home.

4. Use dehumidifiers and moisture absorbers

In rooms that tend to stay damp, like bathrooms or kitchens, consider using a dehumidifier or moisture absorbers.

5. Ensure airflow isn’t blocked

Try to keep furniture slightly away from walls and avoid covering vents or radiators.

This allows air to circulate freely and helps moisture evaporate, reducing the risk of mould.

Reporting persistent mould

If you notice damp or mould in your home, it’s important to report it straight away.

If you’re a Habinteg tenant experiencing persistent mould, contact our Customer Services Team at Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 or via direct@habinteg.org.uk. You can also report it on our mould prevention web page.

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