31-07-2025
Warning signs of hidden damp and mould in your home – it could cost you thousands and damage your health
BUYING a home is a very exciting time, and many believe summer is the best time to do it when the better weather can make things easier for viewings and moving.
But when the sun is shining and the temperatures are warmer, you might not notice things that could indicate problems in the winter months.
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While you're looking at big-ticket items like kitchens and bathrooms, it's easy to miss subtle warning signs of bigger problems.
And these issues could quickly turn your dream home into a nightmare - even costing you thousands of pounds further down the line.
For example, small indicators of mould could easily be hidden while you're viewing a property and your attention is elsewhere.
So, in a bid to help, property experts have revealed that three subtle signs could indicate that a home has a major dampness and mould problem.
Kevin Barzegar, from award-winning estate agency Kaybridge Residential, said these red flags are surprisingly common but frequently overlooked.
He said: "Too many buyers get caught up in the aesthetics and forget to look for the warning signs that matter.
"They're focused on whether they like the layout or imagining their furniture in the space, rather than looking for problems.
"Estate agents and sellers know this, so they'll often schedule viewings during optimal conditions, like bright sunny days when condensation is minimal, or after the heating's been off for hours so musty smells have had time to dissipate.
"Damp and mould issues can affect not only your wallet, but your family's health too."
"Finding these issues before you buy gives you negotiating power, but discovering them after completion could cost you thousands in repairs."
1. Paint bubbling or uneven finishes
Most people don't pay attention to the paint job because they know it's likely that they'll repaint anyway.
However, the experts have urged people to take a closer look when entering a prospective home.
Paint that's bubbling, peeling, or has an uneven finish often signals water damage lurking behind the walls.
This is particularly telling when you spot it in unexpected places, like behind furniture or near ceilings.
They have also encouraged people to pay special attention to areas where walls meet ceilings, around window frames, and behind radiators.
Even small patches of discoloured or textured paint could indicate a much bigger problem underneath.
Kevin says: "Water trapped in walls will always find a way to show itself.
'Fresh paint might cover the problem temporarily, but it can't hide the telltale signs forever.'
2. Musty or sweet, stale odours
Many estate agents can hide smells with cleaning products or air fresheners, but the property pros have urged people not to be fooled by this.
Take a moment in each room to breathe normally and notice any unusual odours, as they could be hiding something worse.
Your nose is one of your best tools during a house viewing.
Musty, earthy, or sweet stale smells are dead giveaways for hidden mould growth, especially in rooms with poor ventilation, like basements, bathrooms, or converted loft spaces.
Kevin said: 'If you walk into a room and something doesn't smell right, trust your instincts.
"Sellers often try to mask these odours with air fresheners or candles, but the underlying smell will still come through.'
KEVIN has also shared some practical inspection techniques, beyond these three warning signs, that could save you thousands.
Bring a torch - Dark corners, cupboards under stairs, and basement areas often hide the worst problems. A simple torch can reveal staining, discolouration, or mould growth that you'd miss in poor lighting.
Don't ignore small patches - That tiny dark spot near the skirting board might look harmless, but it could be the tip of the iceberg. Small patches of mould or damp often indicate much larger problems hidden from view.
Use your nose as much as your eyes - Walk through each room slowly and pay attention to changes in odour. Different types of mould and damp produce distinct odours, from musty basement smells to sweet, sickly scents.
Kevin says: 'I always tell my clients to take their time during viewings.
'Spend at least five minutes in each room, open cupboards, look behind furniture if possible, and don't be afraid to ask questions about anything that seems off.'
3. Condensation when rooms are 'well-ventilated'
Excessive condensation on windows, in addition to being a result of poor ventilation, could signal rising damp or inadequate insulation.
If you notice water droplets or fogging on windows in rooms that appear to have good airflow, dig deeper.
Check window sills for water damage, peeling paint, or soft wood.
These are all signs that condensation has been a long-term problem.
Kevin explains: "Condensation that persists even when windows are open or ventilation seems adequate is a red flag.
'It often points to moisture coming up from the ground or trapped within the building structure.'
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