Damp problems can affect your health and cause a lot of damage to your home. Not only can they lead to the growth of mould and mildew, but they can also create a host of health problems for you and your family. If you are experiencing damp problems in your home, it’s important to address them as soon as possible.
Damp problems and health
Mould can cause a number of health problems, including respiratory problems, asthma and allergies. Your immune system can also be weakened. Some people are more vulnerable to those issues than others. This includes babies and young children, elderly people, people who already have a weakened immune system, such as chemotherapy patients, people with existing skin problems, like eczema, and people who suffer from allergies and asthma.
Moulds produce allergens, irritants and on occasion, toxic substances. If you inhale or touch mould spores, you could start getting an allergic reaction. Sneezing, red eyes, a skin rash and a runny nose are all signs to look out for. In worse cases, mould could also cause asthma attacks.
What causes damp and mould?
Excess moisture build up is the most common cause of mould and damp. Damaged roof and window frames allow the rainwater to steep in and start causing problems. Check for leaking pipes, as they can also contribute to the issue. Excess moisture that gets trapped indoors, can also be caused by condensation. Good ventilation system is crucial for combating damp problems.
The first step in addressing any damp problem is to identify the cause. There are many different reasons, and each one will require a different solution. If you have any leaks or water damage, it is important to repair them immediately. If you’re unsure, call in a professional. You may also want to consider installing a dehumidifier. This will help to reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which will help to address the damp problem.
Does building insurance cover damp problems?
The short answer is no. The majority of buildings and contents home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by damp or condensation. Damp is generally classed as a maintenance issue, rather than a building issue. In fact, one of the requirements of getting home insurance is that the property needs to be in ‘good condition’. A house riddled with damp is not classed as good condition, and failure to notify your insurer could lead to invalidating your insurance. There are some companies that offer specific cover for rising damp, but generally it’s better to keep your property in good condition. Regular maintenance will reduce the likelihood of damp causing extensive damage to your home.
LC Joinery, Roofing and Building Work are experienced in dealing with problems caused by damp. All our surveyors are fully trained and professionally qualified to diagnose and treat rising damp around Fife and Central Scotland. All our work is guaranteed. We are a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen, the Federation of Master Builders, the Construction Skills Certificate Scheme, and a Which? Trusted Trader and a licensed asbestos removal contractor. Take a look at our portfolio here.
Call LC Joinery at 01592 747 047 or email us at [email protected].
