Consider Condensation and Mould as Energy Crisis Looms

As the energy crisis gather pace, households are increasingly likely to be in the position where they are unable to afford to properly heat their homes this winter. 

The Government’s latest annual fuel poverty statistics for England found that in 2020 there were an estimated 13.2% of households (3.16 million) in fuel poverty in England. According to the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, from 1 October 2022, there are now an estimated 7 million households in fuel poverty and this could rise to 7.8 million from spring 2023. 

Not only can lack of heating lead to discomfort and potential ill health, but it can also lead to increased condensation and mould, which can further contribute to health issues.

In social housing and private RMI there is also a growing issue with homes that have been insulated to make them more energy efficient but have not had adequate ventilation installed too. When this is combined with rising fuel bills, and inadequate heating the issue of condensation and mould is only set to worsen. 

Landlords should therefore be looking for energy efficient ventilation that can adequately ventilate properties and deal with condensation and mould.

Fortunately, future retrofits fall under the new Building Regulations which require ventilation to be improved if energy efficiency measures are added. 

Under Part F of the Building Regulations, when installing energy efficiency measures in existing properties, an assessment should determine what, if any, additional ventilation provision is needed, based on the estimated impact of the work. This will help to tackle condensation, mould and poor indoor air quality caused when moisture is unable to escape.

The knock-on effects of the energy crisis should not be underestimated. Not only are people facing a very cold winter in their homes but, without effective ventilation, condensation and mould rates could soar.

Not only is this unsightly and unpleasant to live with, it can cause major health issues – especially for those with existing respiratory and immunity disorders, such as asthma. By ensuring properties have effective, energy efficient ventilation, landlords are not only meeting their duty of care to provide a habitable dwelling, they are also protecting their housing stock from damage to the fabric of the buildings that can be caused by condensation and mould.

*Natasha King is RMI Product Manager at Vent-Axia.

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