A recent BBC Panorama report shed critical light on how damp and mould can seriously harm your health and well-being at home.
There perhaps has never been a more tragic case than that of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who died because of mould in his home. His family had repeatedly raised concerns about the mould, but action was not taken in time. This tragic story has led to Awaab’s Law, which requires landlords to quickly fix health hazards like mould in their properties.
We meet many families, similar to Awaab’s, who are struggling with energy costs. RES wants to help struggling families understand what causes damp and mould, to help keep more homes safe and healthy. Let’s start by looking at some of the root causes.
Causes of Damp and Mould
Poor Ventilation
One of the main reasons for dampness in homes is poor ventilation. When there isn’t enough fresh air circulating throughout your home, moisture gets trapped inside.
This moist air can cause condensation on cold surfaces, such as windows, walls, and ceilings. Over time, this moisture can turn into mould, which thrives in damp environments. Breathing in mould particles in the air can lead to serious health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, and asthma.
Bad Insulation
Proper insulation is important to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. When insulation is poor, it can lead to unhealthy temperature changes within the home, causing damp or cold spots to develop.
Cold spots often lead to water collecting on surfaces, which allows for mould to grow. Areas like external walls and ceilings are also at risk. Not only does this damage the structure of your home, but it can also affect indoor air quality. This can worsen ongoing respiratory issues and create a generally unhealthy living space.
Issues with your Building
Structural problems within your home, such as cracks, gaps, or broken tiles, can let in moisture from outside. This can come from general wear and tear, bad weather, or poor construction.
When moisture from outside enters your home, it can lead to damp patches on walls and ceilings. These damp areas can become breeding grounds for mould. As mould grows, it can release spores into the air, which may lead to allergies or respiratory issues for residents. If these aren’t addressed, it could lead to expensive repairs in the future.
Inefficient Heating
An old or inefficient heating system struggles to maintain a warm and consistent temperature throughout the home. Insufficient heating is a common problem in many households, especially those facing financial difficulties.
When your home isn’t kept warm enough, the problem comes when moisture settles on walls and surfaces, leading to dampness and mould. A poorly heated space can also cause general discomfort and increase the risk of illness.
Everyday Activities
Even our daily routines can contribute to dampness in our homes. Activities like cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors release moisture into the air.
If these routine activities aren’t managed properly, this moisture can lead to condensation and dampness on surfaces, increasing the risk of mould growth. Mould can also ruin personal belongings, such as clothes and furniture. Beyond structural damage, mould can create unpleasant smells and affect your living environment, impacting your mental and emotional well-being even more.
I Have Damp and Mould; What Now?
Damp and mould can lead to severe health issues and damage to your home if not addressed promptly. For fuel-poor households, maintaining a safe home should not be an additional burden. RES can help you tackle these issues effectively. Complete our short eligibility form and talk to a RES advisor if you have any concerns about the risks discussed in this blog.