Black mould

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• irritate the airways as inhaled. 

• trigger asthma, a wheezing cough and breathlessness. 

• cause respiratory illnesses.  

• cause an allergic reaction. This can look like a runny nose, sneezing, and red eyes. If touched, it can cause a rash. 

Common physical symptoms of mould exposure include:​  

• Wheezing​  

• Skin rashes​  

• Cold or cough that won’t go away​  

• Itchy or watery eyes​  

• Congestion​  

• Worsened allergies​  

• Persistent headache​  

If you are concerned about your child’s health speak to your GP or health professional.   

Steps you can take to help reduce the amount of condensation and black mould growth around your home

• In colder weather, try to keep temperatures between 18-21°C in main living areas whilst indoors.   

• Don’t block airbricks or air vents.   

• Dry washing outside where possible.   

• Avoid drying clothes on radiators.   

• If you dry clothing indoors, without a tumble dryer, place clothes on a drying rack in a well-ventilated room, with the door closed. 

• Open window trickle vents during the day or when going out, or open windows for at least 10 minutes every day.   

• Lay thick carpet with a good thermal underlay. Hang thick, heavy lined curtains during the winter.   

• Close internal doors whilst cooking and open window(s). Use an extractor fan if you have one. Put lids on pans (this also reduces boiling times and helps save money). Only boil as much water as you need in a kettle to reduce steam and save money.   

• Open windows after bathing/washing and leave them open for about 20 minutes if possible.  Use an extractor fan if you have one.   

• Wipe down wet windows/mirrors/tiles/shower doors with a window squeegee.  Mop up the moisture with a super absorbent cloth which can be wrung out in the sink. Do not leave wet towels lying around. 

• Don’t put furniture, including beds, against any outside walls. Try and leave a gap between the wall and furniture to allow airflow.   ​​

Black mould can be treated but do not disturb mould by brushing or vacuum cleaning.  

• To kill and remove mould, wipe down walls and window frames with a fungicidal wash.  

• Use mould-resistant paint on areas prone to mould such as ceilings above windows.   

You can read further information on BBC and how to treat this in your home.  

For anyone renting their home from a landlord, there is also support and guidance on Direct Gov.