A Guide to Managing Damp and Mould in Your Cassiltoun Housing Association Home

Damp and mould can be a real headache in any home, but in Scotland's cool and damp climate, it's an especially common issue. Here at Cassiltoun Housing Association, we take the well-being of our tenants seriously, and we want to empower you to keep your home healthy and comfortable. This guide will explain how to identify damp and mould, tackle these problems effectively, and prevent them from returning.

Recognising the Signs of Damp and Mould:

The Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 places a duty on landlords, like Cassiltoun Housing Association, to ensure our properties are free from damp. However, early detection by you can make a big difference. Here's what to look for:

Visual signs: Be on the lookout for dark patches, discolouration, or staining on walls, ceilings, and around window frames. Mould itself often appears as black, grey, or green spots or growths.
Touchy-feely signs: Damp walls will feel cold and clammy to the touch. You might also notice flaking paint, peeling wallpaper, or bubbling plaster.
Sniffing it out: A musty odour can be a telltale sign of damp and mould growth. If you have a stuffy nose or experience respiratory problems at home, it could be a damp-related issue.

Combating Damp and Mould: Taking Action

If you find damp or mould, don't panic! Here's how to tackle it effectively:

Report it immediately: Contact Cassiltoun Housing Association's technical team as soon as possible. A prompt response can prevent the problem from worsening. We will send a qualified inspector to assess the situation and determine the cause of the damp or mould.
Increase ventilation: Fresh air is your friend! Open windows regularly, especially after cooking, showering, or bathing, to allow moisture to escape. Aim for short bursts of intense ventilation (around 15 minutes) rather than leaving windows slightly open for extended periods, which can be less effective, especially in colder weather. Extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms should be used whenever possible during and for at least 15 minutes after cooking or showering.
Reduce condensation: Avoid drying clothes indoors, especially on radiators, as this releases a lot of moisture into the air. Keep furniture at least a few inches away from walls to allow air to circulate. Wipe down condensation from windows and window sills with a dry cloth regularly, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

Preventing Damp and Mould: Keeping Your Home Healthy

Once the initial problem is addressed, here are some ways to prevent damp and mould from returning:

Maintain good ventilation habits: Make opening windows regularly and using extractor fans a standard part of your daily routine.
Dry clothes outdoors if possible: A tumble dryer can be a good alternative, but ensure the room is well-ventilated when using it.
Mind the gaps: Ensure any gaps around windows, doors, and pipework are properly sealed to prevent draughts and cold spots. These cold spots are prime locations for condensation to form.
Heat strategically: It's more energy-efficient and better for preventing damp to heat your home consistently at a moderate temperature (around 16-18°C) throughout the day and night. This reduces the chance of warm, moist air meeting cold surfaces and creating condensation.

Working Together for a Healthy Home

By following these tips and working together, we can keep your Cassiltoun Housing Association home free from damp and mould, ensuring a healthy and comfortable living environment for you and your family.

Remember: If you have any concerns about damp or mould in your home, don't hesitate to contact Cassiltoun Housing Association. We're here to help!