Preventing Damp & Mould

Although we all want our homes to be warm, it's important to remember that a healthy home requires adequate steps to prevent damp and mould.

Many people have experienced issues with damp and mould in their property at some point.  This can occur in all types of properties, including new builds and properties that are always kept warm.  Mould growth can occur in various parts of the home, especially in the colder months.  Most mould growth people will experience is likely to be the result of condensation.

What is condensation?

Condensation is the process where water vapour becomes liquid.  It happens one of two ways: Either the air is cooled to its dew point or it becomes so saturated with water vapor that is cannot hold any more water.

Condensation moisture can be created by everyday living: ccoking, showering and even breathing.  It is present in the air all the time but only becomes visible when it comes into contact with a cold surface and you see the water droplets.

To help prevent condensation you can:

Ventilate your home: On dry days open some windows to allow humid air to ventilate out of the house.  It is better to open a few windows a little througout the whole house.  This helps the air to move through the house.  One window open wide in one room may not be as effective.  Try to do this as often as possible (2-3 times a week), but keep windows closed on wet days as damp air may increase indoor humidity.  Use trickle vents located on windows.

Don't seal or block extractor fans: these quickly remove damp air from moisture-dense rooms like kitchens, bathroom and utility rooms.

Try to keep your home at a healthy temperature: On cold days try to keep indoor temperatures at least 18°C

Keep doors closed: This will prevent warm moist air travelling through the house and finding the colder surfaces.

Keep lids on pots while cooking: When cooking ensure that you cover your pans with a lid to reduce moisture being created from the water boiling.

Think about the location of your furniture: Keep furniture away from walls to allow air circulation.  Cool areas behind furniture will be high humidity areas conducive to mould growth.  Open wardrobe doors regularly to promote air circulation.

Drying Clothes: Try to avoid drying clothes in your home, if you must then do not dry over radiators, use a clothes stand, try to only dry in one room (consider the bathroom) if you can open the window and close the door to the room, this will help moisture escape outside and not into other rooms in the house.

Awaabs Law New Damp and Mould Regulations

From 6 October 2026, new Scottish legislation strengthened protections for tenants affected by damp and mould. The new regulations introduced clear timescales for landlords to investigate reported cases, communicate findings and commence any necessary repairs.

Abronhill Housing Association welcomes the introduction of the new regulations and can confirm that our current damp and mould procedures and service standards are compliant with the new legal requirements that came into force on 6 October 2026.

We take reports of damp, mould and condensation seriously and are committed to ensuring that your homes remain safe, healthy and comfortable places to live.

Our Response Standards:

If you report damp, mould or condensation to us, we will Investigate within 10 working days

A competent person will inspect the issue and identify any action required.

We will provide a written summary of our findings and remedial action within 3 working days

You will receive a written explanation of our findings and any next steps.

Where the damp and or mould is substantial we will Begin any necessary repairs within 5 working days

Where repairs are required, work will be commenced within the required timescale.

Why Early Reporting Matters

Damp, mould and condensation can affect your home and, in some cases, your health. Reporting issues as soon as they arise allows us to investigate promptly, identify the cause and take appropriate action before the problem worsens.

If you notice signs of damp, mould or excessive condensation in your home, please contact us as soon as possible.