The causes of condensation are too much moisture in the air, poor ventilation and insulation, or your home is cold. Over time, condensation can lead to mould growth. It appears as pinpoint black spots, usually on the side surface of external walls, in corners and in poorly ventilated spaces, such as behind cupboards and wardrobes.
What should I do if I notice damp or mould at home?
Damp or mould in your home can be concerning, but if you spot the signs early, it's much easier to treat it and prevent it coming back.
If you see any damp or mould in your home please let us know by calling 01932 825825 or emailing repairs@whiteleyvillage.org.uk. We will work with you to resolve any issues as soon as possible. Initially someone from our Property team will visit and try and identify the cause and agree the next steps. In some cases, we will ask a surveyor to carry out a damp survey to confirm the cause and recommend how it can be resolved.
I can smell damp but cannot see any mould, what should I do?
The smell of mould without visible evidence may indicate that there is mould behind a surface, such as on the back of wallpaper, carpets, behind pipes, furniture or inside heating and ventilation units. You should exercise caution when disturbing potential sites of mould growth as removal of carpets or wallpaper can lead to a significant release of mould spores, this should be reported to your landlord to arrange for the work to be carried out by a professional.
Is damp or mould dangerous?
Left untreated damp and mould can produce allergens, irritants, and spores which are harm to a person’s health. Damp and mould can cause ill health in anyone, but people with underlying health conditions and weakened immune systems can be at greater risk of poor health.
What steps can be taken to reduce the risks of damp and mould?
Produce less moisture
When you're cooking, put your pan lids on as this reduces the amount of steam. Once the water has boiled turn the heat down.
If you're boiling water to cook vegetables, pasta, rice or potatoes on the hob use the smallest amount of water you can.
When filling the bath, start with cold water then add the hot. This also helps save your hot water bill.
If you use a tumble dryer if you can make sure it's the condensing type. If not, make sure the ventilation tube goes outside.
Don't dry your wet clothes on radiators as this adds extra moisture to the air. Whenever possible dry your clothes outside. If you do have to dry them inside, do it in the bathroom on an airer with the door closed and the window open or extractor fan on.
Try using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air.
Ventilate your home
Ventilation in a home is important to get rid of extra moisture that is naturally created through day-to-day activities.
Trickle vents on your windows should always be kept open even in winter. If your windows don't have these try keeping your windows open very slightly. This allows moisture to escape and helps keep the air in your home fresh.
If you can, open your bathroom and kitchen window after cooking or bathing to release the moisture and steam. Always make sure your extractor fan is working.
Close the kitchen and bathroom door when you're using them as this helps steam escaping to other parts of your home. Again, open the window if you can.
If you have the space, don't push your furniture right up against the wall to allow good air flow. We know in some smaller homes this may not be possible.
Don’t overfill wardrobes and cupboards as this will stop air from circulating. Open the door regularly to let air flow too.
Heat your home
When it gets cold in winter, the chance of you getting condensation in your home increases as we're more likely to have windows closed and be drying laundry inside. When your home is warmer with your heating on, condensation is less likely.
Have your heating on low and constant, rather than just turning it up high when you need it. This also helps save energy too.
We know it's expensive but having carpets and curtains in your home will help to keep the warmth in.
Never use a paraffin or bottled gas heater to heat your home. These are a serious fire risk.
What is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law sets clear legal timeframes for social landlords like us to tackle damp, mould and other health hazards in your home. From 27th October 2025, we must:
Investigate emergency hazards within 24 hours
Investigate significant hazards within 10 working days
Send you a summary of our findings within 3 days
Complete safety work within 5 working days
Start longer-term repairs within 5 working days (or no later than 12 weeks)
Offer alternative accommodation if work can’t be completed in time
Keep you updated and give advice on how to stay safe in the meantime
The law is designed to ensure no one has to live in unsafe or unhealthy conditions.
