There are several ways in which you can reduce damp, mould, and mildew in your home:
Heating – Avoid heating one room to a high level and leaving other rooms cold, as this makes condensation worse in the unheated room. Try to leave background heat on throughout the day between 15°C and 18°C – trying to heat your home quickly in the evening may cost you more.
Ventilation – This is key to reducing condensation which can lead to mould. Open your window in the morning to flush out damp air and keep your window open on trickle vent throughout the day – i.e. keep your window on the latch to allow air flow without losing warmth at the same time.
Allow air to circulate around the room by keeping a gap between walls and furniture or clothes. Where possible, place wardrobes, beds, or sofas next to internal walls instead of external ones. Pull shelves away from backs of wardrobes and cupboards, and try not to overfill storage as this will restrict air circulation.
Reducing Water Vapour – Try to hang washing outside if dry, or hang in the bathroom with the extractor fan on. If this is not possible in your shared accommodation, you can dry clothes indoors but be sure to have your heating on and to keep a window open at least on trickle ventilation to allow air to circulate and moisture to escape outside.
Try to cook with pan lids on and always use an extractor fan, or open a window, whilst cooking.
Removing Existing Mould – Wipe down walls and window frames where mould and mildew is present using a diluted bleach solution – please ensure gloves and protective clothing is worn whilst removing any mould or mildew.
Ensure you wipe away any condensation on windows and frames each morning with a cloth to prevent mould from growing.
Speak To Your Landlord or Letting Agent – It is recommended that you follow this guidance for 6 weeks, however, if you are still experiencing issues after this, then raise this with your landlord or letting agent.
They may be able to check that your heating system is running efficiently or check that your home meets the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard. The minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) a rented home can be in England and Wales is an E rating.
If you are experiencing issues with damp and mould after 6 weeks of following this guidance, get in touch with your landlord or letting agent and contact the B&NES’ Trading Standards Team on trading_standards@bathnes.gov.uk.
