Mould and Condensation Prevention

Mould and condensation are common problems in homes, especially during colder months. They usually happen when warm air meets cold surfaces and moisture cannot escape.

It is important to take steps every day to reduce moisture in your home. This helps keep your home healthy and prevents damage.

Why mould and condensation happen

Mould and condensation are usually caused by:

• Poor ventilation

• Too much moisture in the air

• Cold surfaces such as windows and walls

• Drying clothes indoors without airflow

How to reduce mould and condensation

Ventilation

Good airflow is very important.

• Open windows regularly, even in winter

• Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms

• Keep vents clear and do not block them

Always use the extractor fan when cooking or showering.

Heating

Keeping your home warm helps reduce damp.

• Try to keep a consistent temperature

• Avoid letting rooms become very cold

• Use heating evenly across rooms if possible

Cold rooms can cause moisture to settle on walls and windows.

Drying clothes

Drying clothes indoors creates a lot of moisture.

• Dry clothes outside when possible

• If drying indoors, use a well-ventilated room

• Open a window while clothes are drying

• Do not dry clothes directly on radiators

Cleaning regularly

Small amounts of condensation or mould should be cleaned quickly.

• Wipe down windows and surfaces with condensation

• Clean mould early using a mild cleaning solution

• Do not let moisture build up

Cleaning helps stop mould spreading.

Different types of damp and mould

Not all damp is caused by condensation. Below are the most common types.

Condensation

This is the most common type.

• Caused by moisture in the air

• Often seen on windows, walls and ceilings

• Worse in winter

• Usually linked to ventilation and heating

Condensation is usually the occupier’s responsibility to manage through ventilation and heating.

Penetrating damp

This comes from water entering the building.

• Caused by leaks, damaged brickwork or roofing

• Often appears as damp patches on walls

• May get worse after heavy rain

Penetrating damp usually occurs in areas of a home that are exposed to external defects, allowing rainwater to enter the property's structure. Unlike rising damp, it can affect walls and ceilings at any level of the building. 

This type of damp should be reported to Apex immediately.

Rising damp

This happens when moisture rises from the ground.

• Usually affects ground floor walls

• May cause staining, peeling paint or damaged plaster

• Less common in modern buildings

Rising damp is exclusively found in areas of a home that are in direct contact with the ground.

This type of damp should always be reported to Apex immediately.

When should I report mould or damp to Apex?

Please contact us if:

• Mould keeps coming back after cleaning

• There are large patches of mould

• Walls or ceilings feel wet

• Paint or plaster is bubbling or peeling

• You think the damp is not caused by condensation

Do not ignore ongoing damp or mould.

Need help or want to report an issue?

Contact Apex Property Management.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

📞 0203 304 241

✉️ propertyteam@apexhousingsolutions.co.uk

📱 Whatsapp: 0794 648 3266