Damp. Mould. And Why You Shouldn’t Just Paint Over It.
You notice a patch. In the corner of the ceiling. Behind the wardrobe. Along the skirting board. Looks harmless, right? So you open a window, wipe it down… and hope it disappears.
🕵️♀️ Don’t Panic — But Do Act Quickly
Damp is common in UK homes, particularly older ones or those with poor ventilation. But it’s not just unsightly — it can damage your health, your walls, and your wallet.
For anyone with asthma or allergies, mould can trigger serious issues. And for sellers? It can seriously derail your sale.
💧 What Kind of Damp Are You Dealing With?
Not all damp is the same — and different types need different fixes.
☁️ Condensation Damp
Caused by warm, moist air hitting cold surfaces — common in bathrooms, bedrooms and behind furniture. Usually leads to black mould.
🧱 Rising Damp
Moisture rising from the ground up through walls. Look for flaking paint, crumbling plaster, and tide marks.
🌧 Penetrating Damp
Comes from outside — think leaks from roofs, gutters, or cracked render. Often gets worse in wet weather.
🔧 Fix the Cause — Not Just the Surface
Bleach and paint might hide the patch, but they won’t stop it coming back.
Instead, try this:
✅ Improve ventilation (extractor fans, open windows, dehumidifiers)
✅ Check and clear gutters and downpipes
✅ Look for leaks or cracks on exterior walls and roofs
✅ If it’s rising damp, call in a professional to assess the DPC
🧾 If You’re Selling — Be Smart About It
Buyers (and their surveyors) will spot damp. Covering it up won’t help — and could damage trust.
🛠 Deal with it properly
📸 Keep evidence of the work
🗣 Be upfront — transparency builds confidence
🧾 And show documentation if you’ve already fixed it
💡 Final Thought
Damp is your home waving a red flag.
Ignore it, and it’ll cost you.
Fix it properly, and you’re protecting your property, your health — and your home’s value.
📞 Not sure where to start? Call us on 01777 808777 or 01909 492299 or click the banner below to send us a message
Get in touch with Nicholson’s for honest advice — whether you’re living in it, letting it, or preparing to sell.
Nicholson’s Estate Agents
Trusted locally. Respected professionally. Here to help you protect what matters.
