HomesAndHedge guides

In-depth home and garden guides

Our problem pages give you a quick answer. These longer guides go deeper on the questions where the detail really matters: identifying Japanese knotweed before it spreads, telling rising damp from condensation before you pay for the wrong treatment, dealing with rats in the loft within the law, and understanding the health risks of damp and mould. Each is cited to named UK sources such as the Property Care Association, the RHS, the NHS and gov.uk.

How to identify Japanese knotweed The season-by-season signs that tell knotweed apart from its common lookalikes, and what to do if you find it. Rising damp vs condensation How to tell the three kinds of damp apart before you pay for treatment, and why the diagnosis matters. Dealing with rats in the loft lawfully A safe, lawful approach to a rat problem in the roof, from proofing to rodenticide rules and when to call a pro. Damp and mould: the health risks What the NHS and gov.uk say about the health effects of damp and mould, who is most at risk, and how to act.

Looking for a quick answer instead? Start with our household pests, invasive plants, damp and mould, drainage and wildlife hubs, or the identify and compare tools.

Oliver Mackman

Editor, HomesAndHedge

Oliver Mackman is the editor of HomesAndHedge and is accountable for its editorial standards and sourcing. He ensures every claim is backed by a named source such as the Property Care Association, the RHS, the NHS or gov.uk, and that the site is clear about when a job needs a qualified professional.

Last reviewed: 8 June 2026