Damp and mould: how to spot them during a viewing

Where to look

• The bottom 60cm of external walls, especially on the side that faces rain.
• Behind and inside wardrobes, and in corners with no air movement.
• Ceilings under bathrooms, around roof edges and near light fittings.
• Grout and silicone in showers, and the base of kitchen cabinets.

What each sign means

• A tide mark rising from the floor usually means water is coming from below or outside — a bigger job than repainting.
• A stain from above means a leak, present or repaired. Ask which, and ask for the receipt.
• Fresh paint on one patch of wall or ceiling, and nowhere else, is worth a direct question.
• Black spotting in bathrooms with no window or extractor is a ventilation problem that will return.

Why it matters for your health

Mould spores trigger coughing, wheezing and asthma attacks, and children feel it first. Damp also ruins furniture, clothes and electronics stored against the affected wall.

Moisture depth and source need a meter. Record what you can see, then let a professional confirm whether it is condensation, a leak or rising damp before you accept the property.