Dampness in your home may be caused by condensation but it could also be caused by leaking pipes, a leaking roof or rising damp.  

If you have a leak, you might see patches of damp coming through the plaster or wallpaper near where the leak is.  

Rising damp can be identified by a damp ‘tidemark’ low down on the walls inside your home. 

Condensation is surface dampness. It happens when warm air (from cooking or a hot shower, for example) hits a cold surface, like windows, external walls or tiles. It is usually at its worst during the winter and can cause black mould to grow on walls and other surfaces. 

Whatever you suspect the cause to be, please tell us as soon as you spot damp or mould so that we can take steps to sort it out for you. 

Many everyday activities create condensation in the home but there are steps you can take to reduce it.  

Here are a few tips: 

• Cover pans when you’re cooking and try  not to leave kettles and pans boiling longer than necessary. 
• Hang washing outside to dry if you can. If you use a tumble dryer, make sure it’s vented to the outside. If you dry washing indoors, use the bathroom if possible and keep the door shut and the room well ventilated.
• Try not to hang wet washing on radiators as it causes condensation and will also make your heating less efficient. 
• Keep the bathroom door shut and the windows ajar when you can. 
• Let the wet air out by keeping a window ajar or a trickle vent open, especially when you’re showering or cooking (but make sure you’re still warm and your home is secure). 
• Keep your home warm by turning your heating on at a lower level for a longer period of time.