Why is Dampness a Concern?
Dampness in buildings is a concern because it often leads to growth of molds and bacteria and to increased emissions of chemicals from building materials. In addition, dampness causes structural degradation of buildings. Dampness in buildings has a number of causes. The report argues that the way to reduce both dampness problems and the risk of associated health effects is to improve the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of buildings. “There is considerable existing knowledge about how to make these improvements that is underutilized,” says Fisk.