Dampness
Dampness is the movement of moisture through the fabric of the building, from the outside to the inside.
There are two types of damp, rising damp and penetrating damp:
Rising damp
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground under and around a building rises up within the external or internal walls. This is identified by the pattern of dampness or mould growth along the lower areas of external masonry or internal walls. Typically, damp will be seen on plaster finishes up to one metre above ground floor level which forms a tide mark.
Rising damp occurs if there is a problem with the damp proof course. This is a barrier built in to floors and walls to stop moisture rising through the house from the ground. There can also be a musty smell.
Penetrating damp
Penetrating damp occurs when moisture penetrates, usually at relatively high levels, through external walls or roofs and is almost always the result of defective construction. This is readily identified by a localised area of damp or saturated wall / ceiling finishes with defined edges
Penetrating damp occurs if water is coming in through the walls or roof, for example, under a loose roof tile or through cracks on the outside wall of the house. The usual signs are mould, a musty smell and wet patches on the walls or ceiling after rain.
What can I do if I think my home is affected by damp?
If you have any concerns regarding the presence of dampness in your home contact your local Housing office.