I Think I Have Damp
It is well known that some houses and flats suffer from condensation and this is often mistakenly diagnosed as that dreaded word, ‘damp’. The symptoms can be the same, with walls, ceilings and sometimes floors becoming wet and sometimes discoloured and unpleasant as a result of mould growing on the surfaces.
Condensation is not caused by water getting in from the outside of the property however, but by the production of moisture by the occupants inside. Cooking, bathing, drying clothes and breathing all create moisture in the air.
Don't fear - landlords do not expect you to stop breathing, but following the tips below may help you control the level of condensation in your property, making a happier house and happier tenants.
What does it look like?
Condensation which you can see occurs often for short periods in bathrooms and kitchens because of the steamy atmosphere, and quite frequently for long periods in unheated bedrooms. It can also appear as black mould in cupboards or corners of rooms where ventilation and movement of air are restricted, for example behind a piece of furniture.
When does condensation typically occur?
Condensation occurs usually in winter, because the building structure is cold and because windows are opened less and the moist air cannot escape.
What can I do to prevent it?
You can stop very moist air spreading to other rooms from kitchens and bathrooms or from where clothes may be put to dry. Most landlords provide extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms so make sure they are used to get rid of the excess moisture caused by everyday living.
- Ventilate all rooms so that moist air can escape. Open your windows when you can and make sure if you have ‘trickle’ vents on your double glazing that these are open to provide further ventilation.
- Make sure you use the heating reasonably and regularly to heat through the property.
- Try to make sure that all rooms are at least partially heated. Condensation most often occurs in unheated bedrooms.
If you have tried the tips above and are still experiencing problems or are concerned about the problem being more than condensation please speak to your accommodation provider and make them aware of the situation.
