Damp can damage your property, create unhealthy living conditions, and lead to costly repairs if left untreated.

Landlord responsibilities in relation to the repairing standards, including damp and mould, can be found at Repairing Standard: statutory guidance for private landlords

Treating damp or condensation yourself

The advice below tells you what can you do to fix the issue, depending on the damp problem you have.

Condensation

If you've already followed all our condensation advice, you could try:

• cleaning mould from surfaces and repainting with anti‑mould products
• installing extractor fans or extra ventilation

Further advice can be found from Cosy Kingdom - Condensation and dampness.

Penetrating damp

As this type of damp is caused by water getting into the house, you need to:

• locate any leaks coming from gutters, roofs or brickwork and fix the issue
• allow the building fabric to dry before repairing internal surfaces

Rising damp

Rising damp is caused by water on the ground moving upwards. It's important to make sure you install a damp‑proof course to your home or repair your existing one. Fife Trusted Trader allows you to search for local damp proofing companies who can provide advice or carry out work for you.

When to seek professional advice

You may need to hire a tradesperson or ask for specialist advice when:

• the source of damp is unclear
• mould is extensive
• you think there may be timber decay (wood rot)
• structural issues are involved

Fife Trusted Trader is the only official Trading Standards vetted trader scheme in Fife. If you are looking for a tradesman to carry out work, they should be part of this scheme.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) can also help if you need assistance with damp and mould. You can find a list of property surveyors on their website.

Energy advice and support

• Cosy Kingdom is a free and impartial energy and debt advice service available to all tenants and homeowners across Fife.
• Home Energy Scotland offer free, impartial advice on energy saving, keeping warm at home, renewable energy, greener travel, cutting water waste and more.
• Cost of Living Support contains a wide range of advice and support with heating and utility costs.
• Fife Private Rental Solutions offer a comprehensive resource for addressing private rented sector housing concerns for landlords and tenants.