Condensation forms when excess moisture in the air changes to liquid.
It's common when:
- there is excess moisture combined with cold surfaces, such as windows
- there is little ventilation or poor air circulation
Condensation is typically found in corners, behind furniture, and around windows and doors.
Things that can create excess moisture in your home:
- cooking, including boiling the kettle
- having a bath or shower
- washing and drying clothes
- overcrowding/pets
It would be useful to check the following and report to the ‘Repair Line’ if faults are found:
- leaking pipes, wastes, gutters and/or overflows
- rain coming through gaps in brickwork, the roof, window frames and around doors
If you follow our advice on preventing condensation, you should notice a considerable improvement within four to six weeks.
If condensation persists, please contact us:
- by calling the Repair Line on 0345 2000 102
- by emailing repairs@northtyneside.gov.uk
Prevent mould and remove moisture:
- dry clothes outside whenever you can, either on a washing line or a clothes rail
- if you need to dry washing indoors, don't put wet clothes on radiators, use a clothes rail and open a window
- regularly wipe windows, walls and ceilings whenever there's any condensation to prevent the build up of mould
- remove black mould by using a suitable cleaner
Open windows and ventilate your home:
- allow moisture to escape and use the extractor fan (if you have one) when cooking and showering
- keep a small window slightly open in the room that you are in
Keep your home warm:
- keep the heating on low as much as possible in cold weather, even if you are not home
- use the timer and thermostat to set your heating (this will help prevent pipes freezing too)
When possibe, contain moisture:
- close the doors to the kitchen and bathroom when they're in use (even if you have an extractor fan) to stop moisture reaching other rooms
- keep pan lids on to stop steam escaping when boiling or steaming food
Let air circulate:
- keep furniture away from radiators to avoid blocking heat
- leave a gap between furniture and walls to allow circulation
- avoid putting too many things in wardrobes and cupboards
- if you have a tumble dryer, vent through an outside wall or a window
- avoid blocking ventilators or chimneys, they may be needed to provide ventilation to your gas appliances