Condensation vs Damp vs Mould: Spot the Difference and Fix It Fast

Important Information

This guidance is for general information only. If you're experiencing urgent housing issues, contact your local authority housing team or emergency services immediately. For specific legal advice, consult a qualified housing solicitor.

Quick Identification Guide

Condensation

Appearance: Water droplets on windows, walls feel damp to touch, occurs during cooking/showering Location: Usually on cold surfaces, windows, external walls Season: Worse in winter when heating creates temperature differences Solution: Improve ventilation and heating patterns

Rising Damp

Appearance: Tide marks on walls up to 1 metre high, salt deposits, peeling paint Location: Ground floor walls, usually within 1.5m of floor level Season: Consistent year-round, may be worse in wet weather
Solution: Professional damp proofing required

Penetrating Damp

Appearance: Damp patches after rain, may have brown/yellow staining Location: Around windows, rooflines, or external wall areas Season: Directly related to weather - appears during/after rain Solution: External building repairs needed

Mould Growth

Appearance: Black, green, or white furry/powdery growth, musty smell Location: Can occur with any type of dampness, loves corners and poor ventilation Health Risk: Can trigger asthma and respiratory problems Solution: Remove safely, then address underlying moisture cause

Immediate Actions You Can Take

For Condensation

✅ Open windows for 10 minutes after cooking/showering ✅ Use extractor fans and keep them running for 30 minutes after ✅ Heat homes evenly - avoid heating just one room ✅ Keep furniture 5cm away from external walls ✅ Dry clothes outside or in well-ventilated areas

For All Types of Damp/Mould

✅ Report immediately to repairs team ✅ Take photos showing extent and location
✅ Don't ignore it - problems worsen quickly ✅ Remove mould safely with proper protective equipment ✅ Improve air circulation around affected areas

When to Report Urgently

Call for emergency repair if: ❗ Mould covers more than 1 square metre ❗ Anyone has breathing difficulties or allergic reactions ❗ Electrical items are affected by damp ❗ Structural damage is visible (cracks, bulging walls) ❗ Strong persistent musty odours

Under Awaab's Law 2025, serious damp and mould must be addressed within 7 days.

Prevention Tips

Daily Habits

✅ Ventilate while cooking - use extractor fans and open windows ✅ Shower with fan on and keep running for 30 minutes after ✅ Heat your home consistently rather than occasional high heat ✅ Keep air circulating - don't block vents or radiators

Weekly Maintenance

✅ Clean windows and sills to prevent condensation buildup ✅ Check for leaks around windows and pipes ✅ Wipe down bathroom and kitchen surfaces prone to moisture ✅ Report early signs of damp or mould growth

Need help identifying or treating damp and mould? Our Safe Homes Programme includes specialist assessments and our property management team can arrange urgent repairs.

For health guidance on mould exposure, see gov.uk health advice. Report all damp and mould issues through our tenant support service.