Damp, mould and condensation: what to do

1. Look for the pattern before deciding the cause

Condensation often appears on cold windows, corners or behind furniture, especially when moisture from cooking, bathing or drying clothes meets cold surfaces. Mould may grow where moisture remains. A leak, damaged roof, blocked gutter, failed plumbing or water coming through an outside wall can also create damp. Several causes can occur together, so photographs and notes help but do not replace an inspection. Record where marks appear, when they return, any musty smell, leaks, and how the room is used. Avoid diagnosing rising damp from a single patch.

2. Reduce moisture without blaming yourself

Use extractor fans or open windows during cooking and bathing if this is safe and practical. Keep lids on pans, dry wet surfaces and avoid drying laundry in an unventilated room where possible. Leave a little space behind furniture on cold external walls. These steps may reduce condensation but cannot fix a leak, inadequate heating system or structural defect. If ventilation equipment does not work, tell the landlord. People should not have to choose between essential warmth and avoiding mould; see the guide to keeping warm and energy help for support routes.

3. Report the problem clearly and in writing

Tell the landlord or housing association as soon as you notice damp or mould. Give the address, rooms affected, when it started, whether it is spreading, any leak, and whether anyone has health vulnerabilities. Attach dated photographs if comfortable. Ask for an inspection and a written plan with timescales. Keep a copy of the message and any reply. If phone contact is needed, follow it with a short written summary. Do not withhold rent or pay for major repairs without advice; tenancy and repair rules can be complex.

4. Understand the England social-housing rules

In England’s social rented sector, the rules already in force require emergency hazards to be investigated and made safe within 24 hours of awareness. Potential significant damp and mould hazards must be investigated within 10 working days. Where a significant hazard is confirmed, relevant safety work must be completed within 5 working days after the investigation. A written summary is usually due within 3 working days of its conclusion, with an exception if all required work is completed within that period. If the home cannot be made safe within the required time, the landlord must secure suitable alternative accommodation at its expense. Further preventative work has separate requirements. Phase 2 is scheduled for 30 November 2026 and is not yet in force. These England social-housing deadlines do not automatically apply to private tenancies.

5. Use the right escalation route in your nation

Scotland has separate damp-and-mould rules in force from 6 October 2026 for social landlords and most private rented homes. The Scottish guidance gives 10 working days to investigate, 3 working days after investigation for a written report and 5 working days to start fixing substantial damp or mould. Starting repairs is different from completing them. Ask your landlord which tenancy rules apply and what action is planned. In Wales, repairs must be carried out within a reasonable time after the landlord becomes aware, and homes must remain fit for habitation. Northern Ireland requires rented homes to meet fitness standards; contact the council’s environmental health service if the landlord does not address a hazard. Report the problem and the health impact promptly wherever you live.

6. Protect health while the repair is arranged

If mould is extensive, a person has breathing symptoms, or a health condition is worsening, contact a GP or health professional. Seek urgent advice for severe breathlessness or other emergency symptoms. Do not dry-brush mould or mix cleaning products. If a person is at higher health risk, ask the landlord about safe temporary arrangements during work. Keep records of appointments, repairs and any recurring damp after work is completed, then request a follow-up inspection if it returns.

Common questions