Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Guide
Warning Signs of Damp and How to Identify It
Warning signs
Musty smell, mould spots, peeling paint or wallpaper, tide marks, crumbling plaster, rotting skirting, and condensation on windows every morning.
What to do
Find the cause before treating it. Many "rising damp" problems are actually condensation, leaking gutters or high external ground levels.
Landlords' duties
Damp and mould can make a home unfit for habitation. Awaab's Law sets strict repair timescales for social landlords from October 2025, and the government has said similar duties will apply to private landlords. Fix problems quickly and keep records.
Fraser Bond property maintenance
- Reactive repairs and emergency call-outs
- Planned and seasonal maintenance
- Damp, mould and ventilation fixes
- Gas safety, EICR and EPC arranged with Gas Safe engineers and accredited assessors
- Photo reports, certificates and invoices kept for your records
| Type | Typical signs | Common fixes |
|---|---|---|
| Condensation | Black mould, wet windows, worst in winter | Extractor fans, heating, ventilation, insulation |
| Penetrating damp | Patches after rain, on upper walls or ceilings | Fix gutters, pointing, roof or render |
| Rising damp | Tide mark up to about 1m, salts | Lower ground levels, repair damp-proof course |
How it works
Frequently asked questions
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Handy tools
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Is mould the tenant's fault?
Sometimes lifestyle plays a part, but landlords must deal with causes such as poor ventilation, leaks and cold walls.
Do you do damp surveys?
Yes, we inspect, find the cause and quote for repairs.
Damp or mould problem?
Send us the address and what you need. We will arrange a visit or call and give you a written quote.
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