Damp and mould

Surface mould

Surface mould is one of the most common forms of mould this type of mould usually forms in small areas but if left untreated it can spread rapidly.

  • forms due to a build-up of condensation
  • Usually found in cold areas such as corners of rooms, on ceilings and around windows
  • can be removed using an anti-fungal spray or mould cleaner
  • it is easily preventable

Damp

Damp forms when water is able to penetrate into your building from outside. It is usually linked to a building defect.

Look out for the following signs that you may have damp:

  • discoloration of the area usually a damp patch will appear
  • damage to walls such as blown plaster or bubbling paint work
  • dark mode formation

If you think there is damp in your property please advise your landlord immediately.

Water leaks

Water leaks can lead to mould growth if left unrepaired. Leaks can easily be identified by:

  • yellow staining in the area mould is forming
  • damage to plaster or bubbling paint work

If you think there is a water leak your property please contact your landlord immediately.

Cleaning and removing damp or mould

There is a wide variety of anti-mould products available, most of these products sell you a dream but rarely deliver the results. After years of testing, we have found a simple mixture of white vinegar and water works best for removal of surface mould. All you need is a spray bottle, some white vinegar and water.

Just add 1 cup of water and 1 cup of white vinegar in a spray bottle and you will have an effective mould cleaner for a fraction of the cost. If you have already purchased a mould cleaner, please make sure it does not contain any bleach as this can feed the mould and could cause it grow back fast.

Preparing to clean mould

Before you start cleaning, make sure the area is well ventilated and you have some protective equipment such as gloves, eye protection and a mask. Cover or move any nearby furniture and close any internal doors to prevent the spores from traveling and landing on other surfaces.

Cleaning mould

First make sure you spray the mould and surrounding area with the white vinegar & water mix ensuring the area is well saturated. Never try to brush or clean mould whilst it is dry as it will cause the spores to spread into the air.

Once you have sprayed the mould use a dry cloth to collect the mould and remove it, do not re-use the cloth in other areas without thoroughly washing it first as the mould spores will still be attached. Repeat the process until all visible mould spores are removed. If you have stubborn mould that can’t be fully removed using a cloth, try using some wire wool soaked in white vinegar mix and gently scrub the surface, then wipe down the area with a dry cloth once all mould spores have been removed.

If you are cleaning mould that has formed on top of wallpaper we would suggest stripping the wallpaper first to make sure there are no spores hidden behind.

Painting and decorating

Once you have removed the mould spores there may be some stains left behind and a fresh coat of paint will help freshen up the area. Before painting make sure all the mould spores have been removed, simply painting over mould will not stop it from returning.

We suggest using a matt emulsion when decorating as it will allow the walls to breathe. Using thick paints such as vinyl or silk can cause moisture to become trapped between the wall & the paint.

Unable or need help?

If you are unable physically clean the mould yourself or have any questions, please inform the housing repairs team on 01474 33 7777. Our team is on standby and happy assist with any mould issue in your home.