02/06/2025
Six mould myths you probably thought were true
Dealing with damp and mould in your home can be frustrating, but many common beliefs about them aren’t entirely true. Misunderstandings often lead to quick fixes instead of lasting solutions.
Keep reading as we address the most common myths about condensation and mould growth and what to do if you’re still having problems.
“If I clean the mould, the problem is solved.”
Fact: Cleaning mould might make things look better, but it won’t stop it coming back if the root cause isn’t fixed. Issues like condensation, leaks, or poor ventilation need to be addressed. That’s why it’s essential we work together to tackle the cause — not just the symptom. That said, it’s still important to clean mould off quickly to reduce health risks and stop it spreading.
“It’s only an issue in older homes.”
Fact: While older buildings may have more visible signs of wear, damp and mould can affect homes of any age. Modern properties are often built to be energy efficient, which can actually trap moisture inside if ventilation isn’t properly managed. Wherever you live, proper airflow and moisture control are key.
“There’s nothing I can do – it’s all the landlord’s responsibility.”
Fact: Structural problems, leaks and mechanical faults are our responsibility—and we’re committed to fixing them. But there are also small, daily actions tenants can take that make a big difference. Opening windows briefly each day, using extractor fans, drying clothes properly, and covering pans when cooking all can help to reduce indoor moisture.
“Ventilation means having to live in a cold, draughty home.”
Fact: Modern ventilation (like trickle vents or fans) is designed to remove moisture without major heat loss. In fact, letting out damp air can actually help your home feel warmer, as moist air is harder to heat. Good ventilation keeps your home healthier, more comfortable in the long run.
“It’s just a bit of mould – it’s not a health risk.”
Fact: Even small amounts of mould can release spores that affect your health, especially for children, the elderly, or those with respiratory conditions like asthma. Regular exposure can lead to coughing, skin irritation, or more serious issues. That’s why even minor mould problems shouldn’t be ignored.
“Damp only happens in winter.”
Fact: While damp issues often become more noticeable in colder months due to less ventilation and increased condensation, they can develop at any time of year. Mould is common during periods of humid weather or in poorly ventilated spaces like bathrooms and kitchens.
We're here to help
If you’re doing what you can and damp or mould is still appearing, we want to hear from you. The earlier you report it to us, the easier it is to sort out and we can prevent it from coming back. If you or someone in your home is vulnerable, please let us know – this helps us prioritise cases appropriately. You can report it below or visit our D&M web page for tips and tricks on preventing mould and what we can do to help.
Preventing damp and mould is a team effort. By staying informed, taking proactive steps, and working together, we can create healthier, safer living environments for everyone.
Want to know more about our team and the work we’re doing?
If you’d like to find out more about our dedicated damp and mould team and what happens when you report D&M to us, have a read through our website article.
You can also visit our retrofit page below to find out about the ways we’re making our tenants homes warmer, more efficient, and better ventilated, so that we can prevent D&M in the future. We’re also looking at ways to restore communal drying areas and provide better storage options. These are longer-term changes, but we’ll keep you informed as our plans develop.