The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has issued guidance on damp and mould which outlines that there are four types of damp:

  • Rising damp
  • Penetrating damp (due to structural defects)
  • Traumatise damp (from leaks/bursts, inside the building)
  • Condensation damp

The main four causes of damp and mould in homes are:

  • lack of ventilation
  • leaks
  • structural
  • and condensation.

Poor ventilation leads to excess moisture being generated, whilst poor insulation such as poor thermal properties of external walls also plays a part. Fuel poverty or faulty heating systems leading to irregular heating potentially lead to damp and mould occurring, as well as other factors. These include leaks and structural defects such as leaking pipes, blocked gutters or a leaking roof. A defective old damp proof course can also potentially cause damp and mould, as can condensation where relative humidity is above 70%. High occupant density in a room should also be avoided in terms of people, pets and plants.

The health risks linked with damp and mould are well documented, including general respiratory effects, allergies, skin infections and eye irritations. While more research is required, other reported symptoms include headaches, lethargy, memory loss and mental health issues. Those with pre-existing health conditions, older people and those with disabilities are most likely to be affected.

It is believed that around 3% of homes in this country are affected by damp and mould in at least one room.

Housing conditions that put people at an increased level of risk tend to be in deprived or polluted areas and when windows are not opened due to concerns about security, noise, or high outdoor pollution. Small room sizes and building disrepair also have a bearing in terms of risk.

There are five legal standards that are relevant to damp and mould in rented homes and whilst almshouses do not, of course involve tenancies, almshouse charities are advised to abide by the following legal standards in their provision of accommodation:

  • The Housing Act 2004
  • The Environmental Protection Act 1990
  • The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
  • The Decent Homes Standard
  • The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015

Should residents report damp and mould in their almshouse, it is important that the level of their vulnerability is assessed to determine whether they are at higher risk. The resident’s vulnerability should be used as a means of prioritising work, damp and mould should be taken seriously and handled sensitively as it could be causing the resident considerable anxiety.

It is important to seek evidence of damp in a building, such as mould, mould odour or water damage in order to assess health risks and the need to take remedial action. When mould is present, it is most likely to be evident in frequently used rooms.

The subject of damp and mould in properties raises the importance of charities ensuring that they are inspected regularly in order that problems may be detected at an early stage and any necessary remedial action taken.

Further reading:
Almshouse Gazette (almshouses.org) – page 10, Combatting the causes and effects of condensation

posted 5 June 2023