Understanding Condensation, Damp and Mould

Damp, mould and condensation are common issues that can affect every home. They often result from moisture buildup inside the home which can lead to damp patches, black mould and even damage to your property.

Addressing these issues early - as soon as noticed - is vital to help maintain a safe, warm, dry and healthy home.

Managing Condensation in Your Home

Every home gets condensation at some time – usually when lots of moisture and steam are being produced such as bath times, when cooking meals or washing clothes. You may notice this as your windows steaming up when the heating is on or when you're cooking.

Our managing damp, mould and condensation leaflet which has steps you can take to reduce dampness, condensation, and mould in your home – and outlines our process if you call us to report an issue.

If you have any questions or concerns which you have yet to tell us about, please report them as soon as possible on 0141 560 6000.

What is condensation?

Temperature + Humidity = Condensation

Condensation happens when moist air touches a cool surface and forms water droplets. It can also happen when large pieces of furniture, for example wardrobes and beds, are placed against an outside wall.

The two coldest places in a house are generally the windows and the bottom of the outside walls usually close to windows. These are very common areas for condensation problems.

Tips to reduce condensation:

ensure proper ventilation by opening windows regularly.
use extractors fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
avoid drying clothes indoors where possible; if you do dry clothes indoors, make sure the room is well-ventilated.
if possible, keep the temperature in your home between 16 - 21 degrees Celsius.

We know that heating your home can be expensive and a challenge, especially during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Help and support is available. For tips on how to save energy in your home plus grants and benefits you may be eligible for, please check out the Scottish Government's cost-of-living help.

What is damp?

Damp refers to the presence of excess moisture in a room. This can show as:

Condensation on your windows;
Black mould on walls, around windows or on fabrics/soft furnishings;
Staining rising from the floor or coming from a ceiling/window;
A damp, musty smell in your home.

Dampness can occur when a property has been exposed to water. This can be caused by a leak from the roof, external walls, or other sources of water penetration.

What is mould?

Mould is a fungus which exists in the air and is only visible when the mould spores rest on a surface with high levels of moisture and only if left untreated.

Regular cleaning of surfaces, such as window frames, to keep them clean will help reduce the chance of mould.

Remember to also:

Leave space for air to circulate in and around your furniture;
Ventilate cupboards, wardrobes and rooms which are used infrequently;
If possible, position furniture near internal walls (rooms on both sides);
Report any signs of mould to us straight away on 0141 560 6000 or email info@nghomes.net

Mould

What to do if you have damp or mould in your home

You may find that the tips and advice in the guidance leaflet and those listed above on this page are of help.

If you have any questions, from how to use the heating controls in your home to heating and energy support and advice, any signs of damp, mould or concerns you have not yet told us about, please get in touch with your Housing Officer on 0141 560 6000 or email us on info@nghomes.net

Things you can do every day to help prevent dampness, mould and condensation

Please ensure you are home at the agreed appointment time to allow us entry into your home. If you need to change your appointment time, we are happy to do so on 0141 560 6000.

Do:

Keep a window open when drying clothes indoors.
Keep the kitchen door closed and lids on pots/pans when cooking.
Keep the bathroom door closed when bathing or having a shower.
Use an extractor fan in the kitchen and bathroom, if you have one, or ensure the window is open to allow the excess moisture and steam to escape.
Ensure trickle vents on windows are open.
Wipe down condensation or water droplets from walls, tiles, shower screens and windows and windowsills.

Don't:

Dry items such as clothing over warm radiators.
Overfill cupboards and wardrobes.
Keep furniture and beds hard against walls or fill the room with bulk as this doesn’t allow air to circulate.
Block ventilation fans or grills.
Use flueless gas or paraffin heaters - these produce a lot of moisture and are a fire risk.

The new iOpt sensors

Working in partnership with iOpt, ng homes will be placing environmental sensors in all our homes over the coming months. We are doing this as part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that every tenant has a warm, healthy, and comfortable home.

What will be happening in my home?

Two small devices, about the size of a light switch, will be placed in your living room and main bedroom. These devices check temperature, humidity and CO2 levels and will help us to spot any signs of issues such as damp, mould, and poor ventilation before they become a problem. The installation should take no more than 10 minutes and will be arranged with you in advance.

Why are we doing this?

We know how important it is for you to live in a home which is warm, dry, safe, healthy and energy efficient.

These devices will help us to:

Identify early signs of moisture or damp.
Make sure your home is well-ventilated.
Support tenants who may be facing challenges with heating or rising energy costs.
Look after your home in a proactive way.

Learn more about iOpt sensors on their website including frequently asked questions.