Ways to protect your home from mould | Tenant news

Condensation and mould can appear in our homes during the colder months with a third of UK homes facing mould , but there are simple steps you can take that can help keep the problem at bay.

Condensation forms when warm, moist air hits cold surfaces like windows and walls, turning into water droplets. Left unchecked, these droplets can lead to mould growth, making your home unhealthy.

Common causes

Here are the main causes of moisture build-up:

• Poor ventilation: Without proper airflow, moisture has nowhere to go, leading to damp and mouldy environments.
• Not enough heating: Cold rooms lead to temperature differences, increasing condensation and mould risk.
• Indoor laundry drying: Drying clothes inside can seriously increase indoor moisture levels especially in smaller homes.
• Cooking & showering: Steam from these daily activities contributes to moisture build-up and mould formation.
  
  

What can you do?

You can take a number of simple steps for a healthier, dryer home:

Keep your home ventilated

Open windows regularly, especially after cooking, showering, or drying clothes indoors. If you’ve got extractor fans, use them! Keep them running for a few extra minutes after use to ensure that moisture escapes.

Steady heat keeps moisture away

Maintain a steady temperature of 18-21°C if you can. Even running the heating on low will prevent moisture from forming on cold surfaces.

Keep steam at bay when cooking and showering

Open a window or door while cooking or showering to let the steam escape. If possible, use a fan to help circulate the air. Afterward, wipe down any damp surfaces to reduce moisture buildup.

Report leaks right away

Check for leaks around your home—whether it’s pipes, taps, or the roof. Use our mould and damp report form to let us know about any issues with damp to prevent further water damage and mould growth.

Try moisture absorbers

Moisture-absorbing products like dehumidifiers can help reduce moisture levels, especially in rooms that tend to stay damp.

Avoid blocking airflow

Don’t block vents or radiators with furniture. Let air circulate freely to help prevent moisture from building up.

Tackle mould head-on

If you spot mould, clean it up right away to prevent it from spreading. Wear gloves and a mask for protection and check our mould prevention web page for tips on treating mould.

Got persistent mould?

If you’re a Habinteg tenant with persistent mould in your home, report it to us by contacting out Customer Services Team at Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 or via direct@habinteg.org.uk.

You can also report it via the form at the bottom of our mould prevention web page.

 

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