Mould Health
Mould · Damp · Your health

Mould and your health

Mould in the home can affect your breathing, skin and eyes. Understand the health risks, then have it removed, treated and prevented by specialists.

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Mould removal services

Mould Removal

Safe removal of mould from walls, ceilings, window frames and fabrics, with surfaces cleaned and treated afterwards.

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Black Mould Removal

Specialist treatment of black mould in bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms and lofts, using containment where needed to stop spores spreading.

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Why mould is a health concern in UK homes

Mould releases tiny spores into the air. Breathing them in or touching mouldy surfaces can irritate the airways, eyes and skin, set off allergies and trigger asthma, particularly when exposure continues for weeks or months.

Cold, damp British weather, solid walls, ageing roofs and tightly sealed homes let moisture build up. Wiping visible patches removes the surface only. Lasting results come from removing the growth properly, then dealing with the source of the moisture.

Common areas include bathroom ceilings, window reveals, behind furniture on external walls, loft spaces and wardrobes.

How mould affects health

Airways

Spores can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, and can set off asthma attacks.

Allergies

Sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes and skin rashes are common allergic reactions.

Infection

People with weakened immune systems or existing lung conditions can develop fungal infections.

Irritation

Mould can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and skin even in people without allergies.

Symptoms of mould exposure

  • Coughing and wheezing
  • Shortness of breath or tight chest
  • Runny or blocked nose, sneezing
  • Sore, red or watery eyes
  • Itchy skin or rash
  • Sore throat
  • Headaches and tiredness

Who is most at risk

  • Babies and young children
  • Older people
  • People with asthma or other lung conditions
  • People with eczema or allergies
  • People with a weakened immune system

This is general information, not medical advice. See your GP or call NHS 111 if you are worried about your health.

How it works

1

Enquire

Send your details through the form with a short description of the problem.

2

Survey

We inspect the affected areas and identify the cause of the moisture.

3

Remove and treat

The mould is removed and surfaces are treated to prevent regrowth.

4

Prevent

You receive practical advice on ventilation and moisture control to keep it from returning.

What causes mould

Mould needs moisture. Finding the source is the first step to stopping it for good.

  • Condensation
    Warm, moist air from cooking, showering and drying washing meets cold surfaces. The most common cause in UK homes.
  • Penetrating damp
    Rain gets in through damaged roofs, blocked gutters, cracked render or faulty window seals.
  • Rising damp
    Ground moisture travels up walls when the damp-proof course is missing or has failed.
  • Leaks
    Dripping pipes and appliances keep materials wet, often out of sight behind panels or under floors.

Mould and health questions

Can mould make you ill?

Yes. Mould can cause allergic reactions, irritate the nose, throat, eyes and skin, and trigger asthma. People with weakened immune systems or lung disease can develop more serious problems.

What does mould exposure feel like?

Common signs are a cough, wheezing, a blocked or runny nose, sore or watery eyes, skin rashes and shortness of breath. Symptoms often ease when you spend time away from the affected home.

Is black mould more dangerous than other mould?

Colour alone does not show how harmful a mould is. Any widespread mould growth indoors is a health concern, and the priority is to remove it and fix the moisture source.

How do I stop mould coming back?

Find and fix the cause of the moisture, such as a leak or poor ventilation. Ventilate while cooking and bathing, dry washing outdoors where possible, keep a steady background heat and wipe away condensation.

Who is responsible for damp and mould in a rented home?

Landlords are generally responsible for repairs to the structure and for damp caused by disrepair, and homes must be fit for human habitation. Report the problem to your landlord in writing. In England, Awaab's Law sets time limits for social landlords to investigate and fix hazards such as damp and mould.

When should I see a doctor?

See your GP or call NHS 111 if symptoms are severe, last for a long time, or affect a child, an older person or anyone with asthma, a lung condition or a weakened immune system. Call 999 in an emergency.

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Tell us about your mould problem

Send a few details and we will get back to you to arrange a survey. Photos can be sent when we reply.