Condensation Advice, Landlord Resources

BCP Council Landlords Advice Booklet Condensation & Damp
Download Our BCP Council Landlords Advice Booklet Condensation & Damp Request Printed Resources for your Organisation

Contents

  1. What causes condensation?
  2. Types of damp
  3. Mould growth
  4. Your responsibilities
  5. Understanding and addressing the health risks
    • People most at risk of health issues
    • Groups most at risk of health issues
    • Housing conditions and associated risks
  6. Do’s and don’ts – Advising tenants
    • Heating
    • Ventilation
    • Insulation
    • Housekeeping
  7. What else creates moisture and can lead to condensation?
  8. Preventative works and maintenance
  9. Checklist and action plan
  10. Help and assistance

Disclaimers

  • Websites printed in this booklet are not endorsed by Ridgewater Energy or BCP Council.
  • Tips and advice may not apply to every home; seek professional advice when unsure.
  • Information correct as of October 2024.
  • Website links may change; search relevant terms in Google for updates.

What Causes Condensation?

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air meets a cold surface, like:

  • Windows
  • Tiles
  • Toilet cisterns
  • Mirrors
  • External walls

This results in water droplets, which can lead to:

  • Black mould (potential health hazard)
  • Damage to furniture, clothes, and decorations

Condensation affects all property types:

  • Modern homes: Often well-insulated but poorly ventilated.
  • Older homes: Poorly insulated, making them harder to heat consistently.

Types of Damp

  1. Penetration Damp:
    • Caused by rain entering through damaged roofs or cracked walls.
    • Often results in tidemarks or stains.
  2. Rising Damp:
    • Found on ground-floor walls due to faulty or absent damp-proof courses.

Mould Growth

Mould occurs when spores in the air land on damp surfaces, appearing as black spots.

Safe Cleaning:

  • Use approved biocides (refer to HSE Biocide Approvals).
  • Avoid vacuuming or brushing dry mould to prevent airborne spores.

For more guidance, visit: HSE Guidance on Biocides

Your Responsibilities

Landlords must:

  • Comply with the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to identify hazards like excess cold.
  • Meet Fitness for Human Habitation Standards to ensure properties are safe.
  • Adhere to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) to improve insulation and heating.

Understanding and Addressing Health Risks

People Most at Risk:

  • COPD, cystic fibrosis, or cardiovascular diseases
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., cancer patients or transplant recipients)
  • Pregnant women and their babies
  • Children, young people, and older adults

Housing Conditions That Increase Risk

  • Poor insulation or ventilation
  • Inefficient heating systems
  • Overcrowded homes

Landlords should regularly inspect properties for these conditions.

Do’s and Don’ts – Advising Tenants

Heating

  • Maintain indoor temperatures between 18–21°C.
  • Use thermostats and radiator valves effectively.

Ventilation

  • Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Open windows to release moist air and let in fresh air.

Insulation

  • Ensure loft insulation is at least 300mm thick.
  • Draught-proof windows and doors.

What Else Creates Moisture?

  1. Humidifiers: Add moisture to the air.
  2. Fish Tanks Without Lids: Increase evaporation.
  3. Gas Heaters: Produce as much moisture as gas burned.
  4. Kettles: Create unnecessary steam.
  5. Baths and Showers: Generate high levels of steam.

Preventative Works and Maintenance

  • Inspect roofs, gutters, and pipes regularly for leaks.
  • Ensure windows have trickle vents and secure locks for safe ventilation.
  • Use French drains or pea shingle around walls to manage rainwater.
  • Check loft insulation and ventilation to prevent cold spots and condensation.
  • Maintain heating systems and ensure adequacy for the property.

Checklist and Action Plan

External Checks:

  • Inspect for peeling wallpaper or visible damp.
  • Check roofs, guttering, and pointing for damage.

Internal Checks:

  • Look for poor ventilation or broken heating systems.
  • Verify loft insulation reaches wall plates to avoid mould.
  • Assess cavity wall insulation defects via CIGA: 01525 853300.

Help and Assistance