Damp, mould and structural
Damp and mould: the health risks
The NHS is clear that damp and mould can affect your health, especially your airways and lungs. Mould releases allergens, irritants and sometimes toxins, and breathing in spores can trigger respiratory problems, allergic reactions and asthma attacks. Babies, children, older people, and anyone with a respiratory condition, allergy or weakened immune system are most at risk. The right response is to clean small areas safely and to find and fix the cause of the damp, not just paint over it.
Damp and mould are not just a cosmetic problem. The death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak from prolonged exposure to mould in his home brought national attention to the health risks and led to new legal duties on landlords. This guide explains what the NHS and gov.uk say about those risks, who is most vulnerable, and how to deal with mould safely. It is general information, not medical advice: if you are worried about symptoms, speak to a GP.
Mould is the visible sign; the underlying cause is almost always excess moisture, most often condensation. See our guide to telling damp types apart and our black mould guide for the practical fix.
What the health effects are
According to the NHS, moulds produce allergens, irritants and, in some cases, toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mould spores can cause an allergic reaction such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and a skin rash. Mould can also trigger asthma attacks in people with asthma.
The effect on health depends on the amount of mould, how long someone is exposed, and their own sensitivity. Damp environments can also encourage house dust mites and bacteria, which add to the respiratory burden. Persistent symptoms that improve away from the home are a sign worth taking to a GP.
Who is most at risk
The NHS identifies several groups as more vulnerable to the effects of damp and mould: babies and children, older people, people with existing skin conditions such as eczema, people with respiratory problems such as allergies and asthma, and people with a weakened immune system, for example those having chemotherapy.
For these groups in particular, damp and mould should be treated as a priority rather than left. The government's guidance for landlords, published after the Awaab Ishak case, stresses that damp and mould are a serious risk and must not be dismissed as the occupier's lifestyle.
How to deal with it safely
For a small patch, the NHS advises cleaning the mould away using a suitable mould remover or soapy water, wearing protective gloves, a mask and goggles, and being careful not to brush dry mould, which sends spores into the air. Soft furnishings and items that have absorbed mould and cannot be cleaned are best thrown away. Ventilate the room while you work.
Cleaning treats the symptom. To stop mould returning you have to reduce the moisture: improve ventilation, heat cold rooms gently and steadily, avoid drying washing indoors without ventilation, and fix any leaks or damp faults. For large or recurring mould, get the cause diagnosed. See our condensation guide and the damp proofing cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can damp and mould make you ill?
The NHS says damp and mould can affect health, particularly the airways and lungs. Mould produces allergens, irritants and sometimes toxic substances, and breathing in spores can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and worsen asthma. The effect is greater the longer and more heavily someone is exposed.
Who is most at risk from mould?
The NHS lists babies and children, older people, people with existing skin or respiratory conditions such as eczema or asthma, those with a weakened immune system, and people with allergies as more vulnerable. Following the death of Awaab Ishak, gov.uk and the regulator have stressed that damp and mould in rented homes must be dealt with promptly.
How do I clean mould safely?
For small areas, the NHS advice is to clean it off with a proprietary mould remover or soapy water, wearing protective gloves, a mask and eye protection, and to avoid disturbing or brushing dry mould, which releases spores. Throw away soft items that cannot be cleaned. For large or recurring areas, address the cause and consider a professional.
I rent. What can I do about damp and mould?
Tell your landlord in writing. Awaab's Law, which followed the death of Awaab Ishak, has applied to social landlords in England since 27 October 2025, setting fixed timescales to investigate and fix damp and mould. The Renters' Rights Act 2025, which received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, will extend similar duties to private landlords, but that part is not yet in force, so private renters are currently covered by the wider housing fitness and repair rules rather than the same fixed timescales. If a hazard is not dealt with, your local council environmental health team can act. Keep a record of the problem and any reports.
Sources
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: 29 June 2026