Residents

Damp, mould and condensation

We want your home to be safe, warm and comfortable. Damp, mould and condensation can develop for a number of reasons, including leaks, ventilation problems, heating issues or excess moisture in the home.

If you notice damp, mould, persistent condensation, a leak, or a problem with your heating or ventilation, please tell us as soon as possible. Do not wait for the problem to get worse.

You can report an issue to Pinnacle through the Ark app, by email or by telephone. We will assess what is causing the problem and arrange the appropriate action.

If you cannot use the app or do not have a smartphone, you can email them. zenrentals@pinnaclegroup.co.uk

Where damp or mould presents a significant or emergency hazard, we will deal with it in accordance with the timescales set out in our Repairs Policy.

Looking after your home

There are also some simple things you can do to help reduce condensation and moisture in your home.

  • Keep your home consistently warm

    During colder weather, try to maintain a comfortable and reasonably consistent temperature rather than allowing your home to become very cold and then heating it rapidly. If you have not used your heating for some time, test it before the colder months arrive and report any problems promptly so they can be investigated.

  • Ventilate your home

    Everyday activities such as cooking, showering and drying clothes create moisture. Use extractor fans when cooking or bathing, keep trickle vents open where these are fitted, open windows for short periods each day, keep internal doors closed when cooking or showering, and allow some space between large furniture and external walls where possible.

  • Drying clothes

    Where possible, dry clothes outside or use a suitable dryer. If you need to dry clothes indoors, ventilate the room and avoid placing wet clothes directly on radiators, as this can add significant moisture to the air.

Look out for signs of a problem

Please report:

  • persistent condensation on windows or walls
  • visible mould growth
  • damp patches or staining
  • water leaks
  • faulty extractor fans
  • windows that cannot be opened where they are designed to do so
  • problems with your heating or hot water

Even if you are unsure what is causing the problem, please report it. We would rather investigate an issue early than allow it to become more serious.

Preparing your home for winter

Falling temperatures can increase the risk of condensation, heating problems and frozen pipework. Before winter:

  • check that your heating is working correctly
  • report any heating or hot-water problems
  • know where your internal stopcock is located
  • where your home has an external water tap with an isolation valve, isolate and drain it before prolonged freezing weather
  • report any leaks or damage as soon as you notice them

If you are concerned about keeping your home warm or need help reporting an issue, please contact Pinnacle.

Find out more

Our approach to damp, mould, repairs and housing hazards is set out within our policies.