Damp, mould and condensation

Treating condensation

Everyday activities such as cooking, showering, washing and drying clothes create moisture in the air. The following steps can help reduce condensation and mould growth.

• keep window trickle vents open where possible
• open windows regularly to allow fresh air to circulate
• use extractor fans when cooking or bathing
• keep kitchen and bathroom doors closed when cooking, bathing or showering
• put lids on pans when cooking
• wipe moisture from windows and other surfaces
• leave a gap of at least 50mm between furniture and external walls where possible to allow air to circulate
• keep your home warm where possible
• after showering or bathing, leave the extractor fan running for at least 15 minutes

Drying clothes indoors

Drying clothes indoors can add a significant amount of moisture to the air and increase the risk of condensation and mould.

• dry clothes outside whenever possible
• if you use a tumble dryer, make sure the room is well ventilated
• clean tumble dryer filters regularly
• open a window if it is safe to do so while drying clothes indoors
• avoid drying large amounts of washing on radiators

Signs of penetrating damp

Please report any of the following:

• water coming through walls or ceilings
• missing, broken or slipped roof tiles
• blocked gutters or downpipes
• cracks or damage to external walls
• damp patches that do not improve with ventilation and heating

Report damp or mould

If you have damp or mould in your home, report it as soon as possible:

• email: contactcentre@midlothian.gov.uk
• call us on: 0131 663 7211