Mould and your health
Living with damp and mould can affect anyone's health, but some people are more at risk (GOV.UK).
Health effects
Government guidance lists (GOV.UK):
- Breathing problems: coughs, wheezing, shortness of breath, respiratory infections (including aspergillosis), allergic rhinitis and asthma
- Eyes and skin: conjunctivitis and eczema
- Mental health: living with damp and mould can affect mental health
Who's most at risk
- People with existing health conditions, including respiratory conditions and allergies
- People with weakened immune systems
- Pregnant women
- Children
- Older people
- People with mental health conditions
- People who are housebound and spend more time at home
Source: GOV.UK. See also NHS inform. If you're worried about symptoms, speak to your GP or pharmacist.
Cleaning small areas of mould
- Use a mould and mildew cleaning product on hard surfaces – RICS says these are more effective and safer than bleach – and let the surface dry completely (RICS).
- Wear gloves, a mask and goggles, keep the door shut and the window open (RICS).
- Larger areas, such as a substantial part of a wall or ceiling, should be dealt with by professionals (RICS).
Cleaning isn't a fix
Mould treatments only deal with the symptoms. The cause – condensation, a leak, or water getting in – has to be found and fixed, which often needs an independent surveyor (RICS). Renting? Tell your landlord promptly – see landlord duties.