In 40 seconds
Most damp and mould in UK homes is one of three things: condensation (by far the most common), rising damp, or penetrating damp — and the fix depends entirely on which you have. Black mould grows where surfaces stay cold and damp; it can affect breathing, and the NHS advises babies, older people and those with asthma or weak immune systems are most at risk. If you rent, your landlord is usually responsible for tackling damp and disrepair, and social landlords now face statutory timescales under Awaab’s Law. The single most useful step is an accurate, independent damp survey — not a free quote from a firm that profits from the treatment.