Damp and mould

We are committed to providing our tenants with safe, and comfortable homes, including making sure they are free from anything that could potentially cause you harm, including damp and mould.

Our responsibility to our tenants

We recognise how distressing it can be to have damp and mould in your home, and it is our responsibility to make sure we are maintaining your property and complete any necessary repairs to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. 

How we respond to reports of damp and mould

If you are experiencing any issues with damp and mould, we ask that you report it immediately. All reports are taken seriously and are given a high priority. Following your report, we will:

• offer immediate advice as to how you can reduce the level of condensation in your home to help prevent the development or spread of mould
• arrange an inspection of your home within 20 working days, at a time that is convenient for you, to assess the type of damp you are experiencing, and the potential causes
• thoroughly clean any surfaces affected by mould within three working days, including applying an anti-fungicidal treatment to stop it coming back
• arrange to repair your home as quickly as possible if a defect is identified as causing or contributing to your damp issue, and if necessary we will install extractor fans and Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) units to improve air flow and reduce moisture. We will aim to carry out any routine works within 20 working days. Any complex works we will aim to carry out within 90 working days
• if necessary, find you alternative temporary accommodation while we fix your home
• offer simple advice and guidance on what causes damp and mould, and simple steps you can take to stop future issues developing
• refer you to our Housing Advice and Support team, if appropriate, who will make sure you are maximising your income, and if necessary, direct you to specialist support to help you afford to heat your home

We will keep you updated every step of the way, and our repairs team will be available to answer any questions you may have. 

How to report damp and mould in your home

If you suspect you have a damp and mould problem in your home, please let us know by completing our short online form, providing as much detail as possible.

Report damp or mould in your home

Alternatively, you can report damp and mould issues, or check on the progress of a repair, by calling 0800 408 6008, or emailing repairs@gateshead.gov.uk. 

Preventing damp and mould in your home

There are some simple steps you can take as a tenant to help prevent the development of condensation and spread of mould in your home.

Ventilate your home to help stop the build-up of moisture by:

• Drying any surfaces, including wet windows and frames regularly
• Keeping trickle vents open in window frames
• Opening windows, even if only slightly
• When washing, drying clothes, and bathing, open windows and keep interior doors closed
• When cooking, open windows and keep pots and pans covered with lids
• Dry clothes outdoors if possible, and use a ventilated tumble dryer if drying indoors
• Ensuring all extractor fans are used when necessary, particularly when showering or bathing
• Leaving a gap between walls and furniture to allow the air to flow
• Don't overfill cupboards and wardrobes - make sure there is enough space for air to flow
• Don't block air vents, air bricks or trickle vents - these help to keep the air moving
• Heat your home effectively. It is best, where possible, to have a constant, low background heat which helps to create warmer surfaces and reduces the chance of damp, condensation, and mould.

If you do spot any mould developing, treat it straight away to prevent it spreading by washing the surface with a fungal wash using a dry, clean cloth. If painting an affected area use a fungicidal paint. Most wallpaper paste contains a fungicide to prevent mould growth.

If the problem persists, please report it straight away.