Healthy Homes
Our priority and responsibility as a landlord is to provide you with a safe and healthy home.
All homes are at risk of condensation, particularly through the winter months. If you have excess condensation in your home, this can lead to problems such as mould growth, which can affect your health and the health of your home.
Small amounts of condensation are not usually a problem, and there are some everyday things we can all do to help prevent it.
The Energy Saving Trust has created a handbook and short video to help you manage condensation and maintain a healthy home.
We have also produced a useful leaflet with information on the different types of damp so that you can identify any potential concerns and let us know if there is a problem.
If you spot any damp or mould in your home – or following these tips does not reduce excess condensation – let us know straight away.
This information is part of our overall response to damp and mould. You can read more about how we identify and resolve issues in our Damp, Mould and Condensation Policy.
What is Condensation?
When warm, wet air hits something cold, water – or condensation – can start to form. This is particularly common in areas with low ventilation, where surface condensation can appear on windows, walls, and ceilings. If this continues to happen, condensation can lead to dampness and mould growth.
If you spot condensation on a surface, wipe it down with a dry, clean cloth or towel.
Tips to reduce condensation:
Open windows regularly to allow air to flow. Even 15 minutes can make a difference
Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
Use outside drying areas where possible
Try to keep the temperature in your home between 18 – 21 degrees.
What is damp?
Damp can be described as unwanted moisture in your home, which can appear as wet walls, damp patches, or a musty smell. It often results from water ingress or humidity in the air. There are many types of damp that can affect your home. Firstly, rising damp can travel up from the ground. Secondly, penetrating damp can enter through the walls or roof. Both can lead to structural dampness and water damage over time if not treated.
Tips for spotting damp:
Look for signs of wall stains or peeling paint
Check for humidity in the air or areas that feel constantly wet
Rising damp will usually affect lower walls, while penetrating damp will happen at any height.
What is mould?
Condensation can lead to mould growth on walls and furniture. Mould is a type of fungus that often appears as small black spots. It can also grow in hidden areas, such as behind wallpaper or under carpets. Mould thrives in damp, humid spaces with poor lighting and ventilation and is commonly found around window seals, kitchen tiles, and bathroom areas.
To prevent mould from becoming a health risk, cleaning and ventilating affected areas regularly is important. While it’s more likely to develop during the winter, mould can occur at any time of the year.
Reporting damp or mould
To report damp, mould or condensation, you can fill out the form on our website , call us on 01626 322722, option 2 or email repairs@teignhousing.co.uk
The Customer First Team will triage all reports of Damp or Mould to determine the severity of the issue and allow us to prioritise. They will then either arrange an appointment for a repair or ask a qualified member of staff to review and, if necessary, carry out an inspection. They will also offer guidance and advice.
We aim to attend any report of damp, mould or condensation within 14 days of it being reported.
We’re here to support you in maintaining a safe and healthy home environment.