Damp and Mould

At Blackwood, we know that damp and mould can be a real concern for tenants, and we want to support you in keeping your home healthy and safe. The Scottish Government has made tackling damp and mould in housing a priority, and we are committed to working with our customers to reduce the risks and deal with any problems quickly.

Damp and mould are usually caused by excess moisture, often from condensation. There are simple steps you can take at home to reduce the chance of it building up.

• When cooking or boiling a kettle – use an extractor fan or open a window. Cover saucepans and avoid letting pans or kettles boil longer than necessary.

• When bathing or showering – keep the bathroom door closed and open a window slightly, or use the fan. Keep the fan running for around 30 minutes afterwards.

• When drying clothes indoors – open one (ideally two) windows so moisture can escape and fresh air can come in. If possible, dry clothes outdoors.

• Leave space behind furniture – large pieces such as wardrobes should be about an inch away from walls to stop mould forming.

• Keep a steady level of heat – try to make sure all rooms stay at least a little warm. Cold rooms that only get bursts of heat are more likely to suffer from condensation.

• Let fresh air in daily – open living room and bedroom windows for a few minutes each day to refresh the air in your home.

You can also read our Damp & Mould Leaflet  which gives more detailed guidance.