Identifying and addressing the health risks associated with damp and mould in the home

Damp and mould in the home can pose a serious risk to health, especially for those who are already vulnerable, such as the elderly, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.

Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp, warm environments. It can produce spores that are invisible to the naked eye and can be inhaled or ingested. Exposure to mould spores can trigger a variety of health problems, including:

• Respiratory problems: Mould can cause or worsen asthma, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. Symptoms can include cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
• Skin problems: Mould can cause skin irritation, rashes, and other skin conditions.
• Eye problems: Mould can cause eye irritation, redness, and tearing.
• Neurological problems: Mould can cause headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
• Immune system problems: Mould can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections.

In severe cases, exposure to mould can lead to serious health problems, such as pneumonia and other respiratory infections. It can also worsen existing health conditions, such as heart disease and cancer.

If you have damp and mould in your home, it is important to take steps to address the problem as soon as possible. This will involve identifying and fixing the source of the damp and removing the mould.

Here are some tips for preventing damp and mould in the home:

• Keep your home well-ventilated. This means opening windows and doors regularly to let fresh air in.
• Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the air.
• Fix any leaks or plumbing problems promptly.
• Prevent condensation from forming on windows and walls by wiping them down regularly.
• Clean up any spills or leaks immediately.
• Avoid drying clothes indoors.
• Remove any mouldy materials from your home.

If you have damp and mould in your home and are unable to remove it yourself, you should contact your landlord immediately.

Here are some tips for protecting yourself from the health risks of damp and mould:

• Avoid spending time in areas of the home where there is damp and mould.
• Wear a mask when cleaning or removing mould.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling mouldy materials.
• If you have any health problems, such as asthma or allergies, talk to your doctor about how to protect yourself from exposure to mould.

If you are concerned about your health and damp and mould in your home, it is important to speak to your doctor. They can advise you on the best course of action to protect your health.

To discover more about damp and mould in your household, read the full government blog below – 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home–2#ministerial-foreword