Condensation and mould: what to do
Black spots on walls and window frames are usually condensation. Here's how to tell, what helps, and when it's something more serious.
Is it condensation?
Condensation mould usually appears in cold corners, behind furniture, on window reveals and in bathrooms — and gets worse in winter. Damp patches that appear after rain, or tide marks low on walls, point to something else.
What helps
Use extractor fans when cooking and showering, open trickle vents, dry washing outside or in a ventilated room, keep some gap behind furniture, and keep the home steadily heated.
Cleaning mould
Wipe small areas with a mould remover, wearing gloves. Repainting over mould without treating it just brings it back.
For landlords
Take reports of damp and mould seriously and act quickly. Keep a record of what was found and what was done.