What causes mould? 

Mould grows in damp conditions. It can be easy to spot the cause of mould. However, sometimes Mears (who repair and maintain council homes on our behalf) might need to investigate further. 

What causes damp? 

Condensation is the most common form of damp. It happens when moist air meets a cold surface like a window or wall and tends to be worse in winter. Boiling water while cooking, showering, and drying clothes puts moisture in the air. It’s important to balance these everyday activities by ventilating and heating your home properly. Damp can also be caused by a leaky gutter or roof, or by plumbing problems in your home. You might see stains if this is the case. Rising damp is when water comes up through the ground, and this usually only affects the ground floor of buildings. 

How do I reduce damp or stop it spreading? 

• Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
• Close internal doors when you cook or shower 
• Keep rooms warm - at least 15 degrees
• Open windows or use trickle vents when it’s not too cold (opening a bedroom window for 10 minutes when you get up can help)
• Dry clothes outdoors or use a vented tumble dryer
• Leave a gap between furniture and external walls
• Cover pans when cooking 

How do I report a problem? 

Please tell our repairs contractor Mears if you have persistent mould, a leaking pipe or roof: 

Report it online at https://mearsmk.activehousing.co.uk/repairs-postcode-picker/ 

Telephone: 0330 123 2522

Email: dampandmould@mearsgroup.co.uk