Author name: Umar Farooq

Why is under the stairs damp? A leak, condensation in a shut cupboard, or water from outside or the ground. 3 hidden causes and the order to check them.

Do boilers create humidity? A flued gas boiler sends its water vapour outside. 3 easy checks for the exceptions: leaks, flue faults and unflued heaters.

Can mold grow on metal? Not on clean bare metal, but it grows on the grime, rust and condensation that sit on it. 3 causes, a cleaning method and prevention.

Why is my porch damp? Usually condensation in a cold glazed room or rain water at the gutter or ground, rarely rising damp. 5 causes and easy checks.

Can you run a dehumidifier when you are not home? Fire and electrical safety bodies say switch it off. 3 checks if you leave it on anyway, hours or days.

Can you use a dehumidifier with a smart plug? Yes, if the unit restarts itself and the plug’s rating beats its draw. 3 rules and what a plug cannot do.

Can mould come through tiles? Rarely through the tile itself. 3 routes water takes behind grout and joints, plus easy tests to tell surface mould from damp.

How to get mould off window blinds: brush it off outdoors, wipe with detergent and water, dry fully, and fix the wet window that fed it. 5 steps by blind type.

Will a dehumidifier turn back on after a power cut? Many do, some do not. How to check your manual, test it in two minutes and spot what it forgets.

What causes damp patches on ceilings? Roof faults, pipe or appliance leaks, or condensation. 4 easy checks that tell you which, before you repaint.

Does leaving the shower curtain open cause mold? No: a curtain left wet and bunched does. How to dry it faster, with the fan and door doing most of the work.

Can mold grow on concrete? Yes, on the dust and dirt film while the slab stays damp. What feeds it, how to clean it, and 4 ways to stop it coming back.