Frequently Asked Questions

Condensation is moisture in the air settling on cold surfaces — it's common and often manageable with better ventilation. Damp usually means water is getting into the structure of your home itself, from the ground, a leak, or through a wall. A survey identifies which one (or which combination) you're dealing with, because the fix is very different.

Prolonged exposure to mould can aggravate allergies, asthma and other respiratory conditions, especially in children, older people and anyone with a weakened immune system. It's not something to ignore, but it's also very treatable — the priority is identifying the cause and removing it safely.

If you're seeing recurring mould, a musty smell, peeling paint or plaster, or damp patches that don't go away with ventilation alone, it's worth having a proper inspection. A survey gives you a clear answer instead of guesswork.

Cleaning removes visible mould, but it can return if the surface stays damp. The cause might be condensation, a leak, poor ventilation, inadequate heating or a combination. We look for the moisture source before recommending treatment.

A photo can help us understand where the problem is and arrange the right next step, but it usually cannot confirm the cause. Condensation, water entering from outside and plumbing leaks can look similar. An inspection checks the pattern, the building and possible moisture sources.

Do not judge a mould problem by its colour alone. Any visible mould or persistent damp deserves attention, especially if someone in the home has breathing problems or is more vulnerable to its effects. If you are worried about symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional.

The wall behind large furniture may be colder and get less airflow, so moisture can collect there. Move furniture away from the affected wall if you can do so safely, and check whether the wall is also affected by a leak or another building problem. Repeated growth needs the underlying cause assessed.

A dehumidifier may lower moisture in the air and help with condensation, but it will not repair a leak, defective building fabric or inadequate ventilation. If damp or mould keeps returning, the cause still needs to be identified and addressed.

Painting over visible mould does not remove it or stop the moisture that allowed it to grow. The mould needs to be dealt with safely and the damp source corrected first. Any redecoration should follow the treatment and drying advice for the affected surface.

Deal with the source of water as soon as possible and keep people clear of any unsafe area. If you rent, tell your landlord or managing agent promptly. Once the leak is stopped, affected materials may need drying, repair and mould removal; a mould treatment alone will not stop incoming water.

Yes. Report the damp or mould to your landlord or managing agent promptly, with photos if possible, and keep a record. They should assess the problem and address its underlying cause. If you are concerned about symptoms, seek medical advice; you do not need to wait for medical evidence before reporting the problem.

Awaab's Law currently sets deadlines for social landlords in England to deal with specified serious hazards, including significant damp and mould. The rules for private rented homes are being considered separately. If you are a social tenant, report the problem to your landlord promptly and use the official tenant guidance for current duties and timeframes.