When to get professional help
Keep away from wet electrical fittings, unstable finishes and sewage-contaminated areas. If mould exposure is affecting your health, seek medical advice as well as addressing the property problem.
What have you noticed?
These clues help explain the problem. They do not confirm its cause.
| What you see | What to report |
|---|---|
| The patch grows after rain | Report possible water entry through the building. |
| It is near a pipe or wet room | A plumbing leak may need investigation. |
| It accompanies condensation | Ventilation and indoor moisture may be contributing. |
What you can do now
- Take dated photos and note whether the area is spreading. Do not drill or cut into the wall to locate a leak.
- Address visible leaks and dry clean, wet surfaces promptly where safe. Keep electrical appliances away from the damp area.
- Describe the symptoms before choosing waterproofing, painting or cleaning. Extensive damage or mould needs appropriate professional assessment.
Details that help us arrange the repair
- The room, approximate affected area and how long it has been present.
- Whether it changes after rain, showering or other water use.
- Previous cleaning, waterproofing or painting and how soon it returned.
If you rent or live in a managed building, notify the owner or property manager and agree the arrangements before authorising work. Take photos only where it is safe; you can share them when CID follows up.
What affects the repair cost?
Ask for the cause and proposed repair sequence in writing. Leak repair, drying, damaged-material replacement and redecorating can be separate parts of the work.
Questions before you book
Will anti-mould paint solve it?
A coating does not fix the underlying water or moisture problem. Establish the cause before deciding on a finish.
Does every damp wall need waterproofing?
No. A leak, rainwater entry and condensation need different responses. An inspection helps select the appropriate work.
Sources and further reading
These guides cover initial checks and reporting, not a remote diagnosis. If there is immediate danger, move to safety and contact local emergency services. Do not wait for a website enquiry.