Official UK health guidance says living with damp and mould can affect your health, particularly for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma, allergies, weakened immune systems, young children and older people. It shouldn't be lived with: find the cause, fix it, and speak to your GP or pharmacist if you're worried about symptoms.
I’m a damp surveyor, not a doctor, so I’m not going to give medical advice. What I can tell you is that damp and mould in homes is taken seriously by the NHS and government, and it’s not something to put up with.
What the official guidance says
NHS guidance and the UK government’s guidance for landlords and housing professionals both say that damp and mould can affect people’s health, particularly the airways and lungs. Mould produces spores and other substances that can be breathed in. Some groups are more at risk, including people with asthma or other lung conditions, people with allergies, people with weakened immune systems, babies and young children, and older people.
If you or anyone in your home has symptoms you’re worried about, speak to your GP, a pharmacist or NHS 111. And tell them about the damp and mould.
Why it matters for your home
From a building point of view, the health aspect is a big reason why I always say: don’t just paint over mould and hope for the best. If it’s there, there’s moisture, and it’ll keep coming back until the cause is dealt with.
Practical steps
- Find the cause. Condensation, leaks, penetrating damp and rising damp all need different fixes.
- Clean small areas of mould carefully with a fungicidal wash, wearing gloves, eye protection and a mask. Don’t dry-brush it.
- If someone in the house has a respiratory condition or a weakened immune system, it may be better for someone else to do the cleaning.
- Large areas of mould, or mould that keeps returning, need the cause investigating.
- Improve ventilation and keep the home heated steadily.
If you rent
Report damp and mould to your landlord in writing. Landlords have duties to deal with damp and mould hazards, and if it isn’t dealt with, your local council can help. Social housing tenants have additional protections and timescales under Awaab’s Law.
I’ve covered the health side in detail on the Damp Show with a series of episodes, because it’s an area where getting good information matters.
When to call a specialist
If you have damp or mould in your home and want the cause found and fixed properly, get a damp or condensation survey. Book a survey with All Dry on 01226 287181 or email info@alldrydampproofing.com.
Listen on The Damp Show
Frequently asked questions
Who is most at risk from damp and mould?
Official guidance highlights people with respiratory conditions, allergies or weakened immune systems, young children and older people.
Should I clean mould myself?
Small areas can be cleaned carefully with protection, but recurring or large areas need the cause investigated.
Who should I talk to about health symptoms from mould?
Your GP, a pharmacist or NHS 111.