At Bancroft TMC, we take all reports of damp and mould very seriously. If you spot any sign of damp and mould, please report it to us immediately, even if the problem is only small.
To report signs of damp or mould:
By phone:
0207 265 8343
By email:
enquiries@bancrofttmc.org.uk
Visit the office:
34 Wickford Street, London E1 5QN
If you see it, please report it.
There are lots of reasons why damp and mould can occur in your home. To make sure every case is properly investigated, we will visit and assess your home. (Please note this only applies to tenanted properties)
When you report the issue of condensation, damp or mould, please provide an accurate description, the location, and a photo where possible so we can act on the problem. We would appreciate it if you could also accompany our operatives or contractors when they come to inspect your home.
Potential causes.
Examples of problems that could cause damp and mould to occur if they are not addressed:
- Drying clothes in your home without appropriate ventilation
- A damaged roof gutter/rainwater pipe(s) in need of maintenance at your home or from a neighbouring home, or in the communal area
- A broken extractor fan or ventilation unit in your home
- A broken or blocked trickle vent in your home
- Damaged seals on baths and showers
Mould vs Condensation
We’ve provided some information below about the differences between condensation and mould growth in the home and guidance on how to effectively manage it.
What is condensation?
Condensation refers to the moisture that is produced when warmer air spreads to the cooler areas of the home and meets cold surfaces, this mostly happens during the cold weather and can cause mould and damp to gather where there is limited airflow. For example, in the corners of a room and behind furniture and beds where airflow is reduced. Condensation is less likely to happen in well-ventilated homes that are kept warm. We generate moisture in our homes through normal living such as when we take a bath, shower, boiling the kettle.
What is mould?
Mould refers to a type of fungi that can grow on almost any damp surface. You may notice a damp or musty smell before you see any visible signs of mould because condensation often forms behind cupboards and wardrobes where the air does not circulate. Although mould is often black and speckled, it can also be green, yellow, or brown in colour. To reduce the likelihood of mould occurring from condensation, the humidity of your home should be between 40% and 60% and the temperature between 18 and 24 degrees.
Tips to reduce condensation in your home
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On dry days open some windows to allow air to ventilate out of your home, but keep windows closed on wet days as dame air may increase
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Put lids on your pots and pans when you cook
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Keep bathroom and kitchen door closed when bathing or cooking, and afterwards too. Also, open windows to allow steam and moisture to escape outside
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Use thermal or lined curtains, keeping them open during the day and closed before dusk. This will capture free heat from the sun and help to lift the temperature in your home
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On cold days try to keep the temperature in your to at least 18 degrees
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Use a towel to wipe up condensation you find on windows
- Limit the number of pot plants in your house
- Let air to the walls. External walls are cooler than internal walls—keep furniture away from external walls to allow air to circulate
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Do not use a portable gas heater. These create high levels of humidity and are expensive to run. They also release harmful gases into the air
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Where possible, heat as many rooms in your home as possible. This will increase the temperature of the structure of your home and make condensation less likely
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Wherever possible, dry your clothes outdoors
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If you do have to dry clothes indoors, use a clothes maiden, and keep the room ventilated when using it. Drying clothes on radiators releases a lot of moisture into the air quickly, creating a high risk of condensation.
