Damp and mould are some of the most recognisable symptoms of an inefficient home. When we talk about energy efficiency, we usually talk about energy savings, carbon reduction and, of course, reduction of energy bills. However, a key benefit to energy efficiency measures such as loft insulation, wall insulation or efficient heating systems is the overall health benefits to those living inside the building.
The truth is, that damp and mould can have catastrophic results for homeowners and tenants. The UK government’s Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has published a report on the health risks of damp and mould in the home. The report explains the real extent of this issue:
An estimated 4% to 27% of households in England are living with damp and mould today
People living in private or social rented housing are more likely to live with damp and mould
The NHS spends around £1.4 billion every year on treating illnesses associated with inefficient housing
Poor housing will cost over £135.5 billion over the next 30 years if urgent action isn’t taken
Let’s take a look at some of the effects of damp and mould in these homes and, most importantly, take a look at some of the measures we can take to reduce the risk to our buildings and to the health and well-being of the residents themselves.
What is damp and mould?
Damp is a buildup of moisture in the walls, floors and ceilings of a typical building. Damp can also spread to furnishings and fittings such as carpets, furniture curtains, wallpaper and even clothing.
A buildup of damp can lead to weaknesses in the overall building structure as well as costly repair work. Damp can also lead to the buildup of microorganisms bringing dangerous bacteria into the home.
Mould thrives in damp environments. It is a fungus that grows in a moist atmosphere that can degrade building materials and pollute the air around it, making the environment harmful to human health.
The health risks of damp and mould
The health risks of damp and mould are mainly respiratory due to the toxins, irritants and spores that can be produced in the air in damp and mouldy homes. By simply breathing the air, residents are at risk of a number of respiratory effects:
In milder cases, coughs, irritations and shortness of breath. In more extreme cases, infections of the airways worsening allergies, developing asthma symptoms and inflammation such as bronchitis and COPD. It is estimated that 5000 cases of asthma in the UK are associated with damp and mould (UKHSA study, 2019.)
Beyond the respiratory effects, irritations of the eyes and skin are also common as well as fungal infections, particularly in those with weaker immune systems.
As well as physical health, damp and mould has a destructive effect on residents mental health also. The degradation of property, having to live in unpleasant conditions, social isolation and the overall stress and frustration of dealing with those responsible for repairs can affect tenants’ mental health considerably.
Who is at risk?
There are many categories of homeowners or tenants who are today at risk of suffering any number of the above effects of damp and mould:
Those with pre-existing health conditions e.g. asthma COPD cystic fibrosis or those with weaker immune systems
Those with physical or mental disabilities
Pregnant women, new mothers and their newborn children
Children and young people
The elderly community
Those who are bedbound, housebound or living with mobility problems
How to prevent damp and mould
A proactive approach is needed to help reduce the risk of damp and mould developing in the homes of the most vulnerable.
In many cases, high-risk homes are those that are difficult to heat or struggle to retain heat. Fortunately, energy efficiency measures are available through a number of government schemes to help make heating more efficient and reduce the risk of moisture and its associated effects.
Improve ventilation
Eliminating moisture from the air requires adequate ventilation throughout the home. Extractor fans in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms can help reduce excess moisture from the atmosphere and reduce the risk of damp and mould growth
Ensure homes are insulated
Insulation not only prevents heat loss and helps to save energy, it also helps to maintain consistent temperatures, reducing the buildup of moisture on cold surfaces, which often leads to dampness and mould.
Cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation and internal wall insulation can help reduce the risk of dampness in the walls, while loft insulation can help maintain a consistent temperature indoors. As heat rises, you can also help to reduce the risk of damp in the ceiling.
Seal gaps and cracks
Not only does this help to improve the flow of air but it will also maintain a consistent indoor environment, improving temperature control and reducing the risk of damp and moisture by reducing access for external air to get in where it is unwanted.
Use efficient heating systems
An efficient heating system such as an A-rated boiler will help contribute towards a consistently warm, dry environment, where dampness and mould cannot thrive. Keeping the walls, floors and ceilings warm and dry with consistent temperature control will reduce the risk of moisture formation and the health risks that follow.
Check your eligibility for energy efficiency measures
Some of the major energy efficiency measures listed above will greatly reduce the risk of dampness and mould in your home. Not only that, there is government support available to help secure funding for fuel-poor households, such as the Great British Insulation Scheme.
Complete our short eligibility form and talk to Residential Energy Services’ expert energy advisors if you have any concerns about the risks of dampness involved in your home.
