Five simple checks homeowners must do NOW to avoid damp and mould and flooding this winter

Homeowners are being urged to take urgent action to protect their properties from damp, mould and flooding as winter weather tightens its grip on the UK.

According to a leading property care expert, just a handful of checks carried out now could save households thousands of pounds in repair costs — and help protect their health during the coldest months of the year.

George Edwards, a property care specialist fromTimberwise, says many homes are unprepared for the combination of cold temperatures, heavy rain and increased time spent indoors.

“There will be plenty of lists around the web telling people how to prepare their home for winter but the advice isn’t always great,” George said. “It is worth taking the time to put together a few key actions that properly protect your home against some very common winter property problems.”

He explained that damp, condensation, mould and even basement flooding often worsen during winter, particularly once heating systems are turned on and rainfall increases.

“Damp in UK households doesn’t just cause damage to property, it can also increase energy bills by trapping moisture and making heating less efficient,” George said.

“It can also impact our health. Black mould, a microscopic fungus that thrives in damp conditions, can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing and asthma. Children, the elderly and those with existing health conditions are particularly at risk.”
He added that mould spores can also trigger allergic reactions, including sneezing, skin rashes and irritated eyes, while damp-related damage can lead to costly repairs at a time when many households are already under financial pressure.

“Damp is something many people battle every year,” George said. “As rainfall increases, more homeowners will start discovering new or recurring damp issues. That’s why it’s so important to act before persistent cold and wet weather really sets in.”

Here are the five key steps George recommends homeowners take now:
1. Check your pipes
Leaks and cracks in internal pipes are a common cause of damp, particularly when heating systems are in constant use. External pipes should also be checked and insulated, as freezing temperatures increase the risk of pipes bursting and causing penetrating damp.

2. Clear guttering and drains
Blocked gutters and drains prevent water from flowing away properly, allowing moisture to seep into walls. Clearing debris now can prevent damp that mimics rising damp and causes long-term damage.

3. Improve ventilation
Condensation is often caused by lifestyle habits, especially in winter when homes are sealed up. Simple steps like using extractor fans, opening windows briefly, or putting lids on pans while cooking can significantly reduce moisture in the air.

4. Inspect skirting boards and timber
Damp walls can lead to dry rot, a serious fungal decay that weakens timber and compromises structural integrity. Spotting damp early can prevent costly timber damage later.

5. Give the basement a winter clean
Basements are particularly vulnerable during winter rainfall. Even small leaks can worsen quickly. Homeowners should check for moisture, ensure waterproofing systems are working and have sump pumps professionally inspected if needed.

“Taking action now could prevent a small issue from becoming a major, and expensive, problem,” George said. “Winter is when homes are tested the most.”