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Owner Guides
Damp and Mould in a Madeira Second Home: Facts for Owners
What WHO says about persistent dampness and mould indoors and how owners should document and escalate visible findings.
Direct answer
WHO identifies persistent dampness and microbial growth in buildings as a health concern. Visible mould should therefore not be treated as a cosmetic issue alone; the underlying moisture source needs to be prevented, minimized or professionally remediated.
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Evidence base
- WHO states that mould can grow indoors when sufficient moisture is available.
- WHO associates damp or mouldy buildings with increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms, allergies and asthma, and recommends preventing or minimizing persistent dampness and microbial growth.
- This guide is not medical advice and does not replace technical mould or building diagnostics.
Document visible findings
- Photograph the location, size and visible change.
- Describe damp patches, flaking, condensation and visible growth separately.
- Do not infer the cause from appearance alone.
Address the moisture source, not just the surface
- Recurring growth or dampness requires investigation of the moisture source.
- Cosmetic covering does not remove an underlying source of moisture.
- Use appropriate qualified professionals when a technical cause is suspected.
Health questions
- Seek medical advice for health symptoms or concerns.
- Anjo can document visible property findings but does not provide medical or microbiological diagnosis.
Quick checklist
- Photographed damp/mould finding
- Recorded location and date
- Described size/change
- Checked nearby visible water/leak signs
- Documented visible condensation
- Did not rely on cosmetic covering alone
- Arranged source investigation for recurring dampness
- Sought medical advice for health concerns when needed
Sources and professional basis
Note: This checklist does not replace a technical inspection, legal advice or instructions from public authorities.
- WHO - Guidelines for indoor air quality: dampness and mould
- WHO Europe - Dampness and mould executive summary
Research checked: 9 August 2026
Support on the ground
If you cannot carry out the visual inspection or preparation yourself, the linked Anjo service page explains the relevant local support.
