Reducing the risk of condensation

Condensation is created by a build-up of moisture in the air.

Cooking, boiling water, taking showers or baths and drying clothes indoors increase it. If condensation can’t dry out it can cause mildew. Whilst living in your rented home you should take all precautions to reduce any condensation build up:

• Always cover steaming pans with a lid.
• Dry your clothes outside whenever the weather allows.
• If drying inside, make sure the room is well ventilated to allow the moisture drawn out of the clothes to escape.
• Let steam out of the house by opening windows and using extractor fans for example when you are cooking, taking showers.
• Make sure all air bricks and any vents are obstruction free.
• Have a small gap between the wall and any furniture and keep the tops of wardrobes clear to allow air to circulate.
• When taking a bath or showering keep the bathroom door closed and open the window slightly after use to let the steam escape and allow a fresh air flow.
• Consider using a dehumidifier to cut down on excessive water vapour.
• Keep your home warm with at least a low basic heat whenever you can.

If you see any moisture, particularly noticeable on windows, glass and walls, you should wipe it down at once. This will reduce the chance of it settling and leading to mould growth. If any mould has formed clean it off using a wash of diluted bleach or a suitable product for the relevant surface.

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