Discovered red mould in your UK property?
Have you ever had the unfortunate experience of walking into your bathroom or walked past a window and noticed an unsightly patch of what looks like reddish mould? You’re not alone, red mould is a common occurrence in UK properties and one that can cause unknowing property owners a lot of stress.
The worry of what health effects could this be causing, is it damaging my property? Does this mean I have damp? There are so many questions that will quickly fill your mind and have your head spinning when you uncover a red mould issue. But, worry not. In this blog we will be breaking down everything you need to know. If you’re looking for more information on mould removal services or would like to see how we helped people in a similar situation to you, click the links to learn more.
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Causes of red mould in UK homes
What is red mould?
Red mould is a common name given to reddish or orange fungal growths, often mistaken for rust stains or soap scum. In reality, red mould is often a type of fungus or bacteria that thrives in damp conditions.
The most common culprit is Serratia marcescens, a bacteria that produces a pinkish-red biofilm and grows where moisture, soap, and organic material build up—such as on tiles, shower curtains, or grout. However, other fungi (such as Neurospora or Fusarium) can also appear red or orange.
Key features:
- Appearance: Slimy, pink to red patches, sometimes with an orange hue.
- Habitat: Bathrooms, kitchens, behind wallpaper, on windowsills, and anywhere with condensation and poor ventilation.
- Growth speed: Can spread quickly, especially in areas with regular moisture.
Feature | Red Mould | Black Mould |
|---|---|---|
Colour | Pink, red or orange | Dark green to black |
Type | Often bacteria (Serratia marcescens) or fungi (Fusarium) | Toxic fungus |
Common locations | Bathrooms, kitchens, windowsills | Walls, ceilings, under wallpaper, damp plaster |
Health risks | Respiratory irritation, infections in vulnerable groups | Severe respiratory issues, toxic effects |
Severity | Can be harmful, especially for infants/elderly | Highly dangerous, requires urgent remediation |
Important: Both require attention. While black mould is more notorious, red mould should never be ignored, especially in homes with children, elderly residents, or individuals with asthma.
Health risks of red mould
Red mould can cause health issues when spores or bacteria become airborne or come into direct contact with skin. Risks include:
- Respiratory irritation: Wheezing, coughing, and throat irritation.
- Asthma triggers: Worsens symptoms in asthmatic individuals.
- Allergic reactions: Red eyes, skin rashes, sneezing.
- Infections: Serratia marcescens is known to cause urinary tract infections, wound infections, and pneumonia in vulnerable individuals.
Public health guidelines in the UK increasingly highlight the links between poor housing, damp, mould, and serious health consequences. Awaab Ishak’s tragic death in 2020, attributed to prolonged black mould exposure, prompted Awaab’s Law in the UK, making it mandatory for landlords to address damp and mould hazards swiftly.
Red mould may not carry the same toxicity as black mould, but it signals damp problems that require immediate action.
Causes of red mould in UK homes
Red mould develops when the following conditions exist:
- Poor ventilation: Bathrooms and kitchens without extractor fans.
- Condensation: Common in UK homes due to single glazing, poor insulation, and cold weather.
- Leaks: From roofs, plumbing, or faulty sealant around showers and sinks.
- Excess moisture: Drying clothes indoors, poor airflow, or high humidity.
If red mould is visible, it’s likely part of a bigger damp issue that also increases the risk of black mould growth.
Can you remove red mould yourself?
While minor red mould patches in bathrooms can sometimes be cleaned with a disinfectant or bleach solution, this is not a long-term fix. DIY removal risks spreading spores and does not address the root cause.
Why professional mould remediation is recommended:
- Safe removal using industry-grade equipment.
- Identification of hidden mould behind walls and floors.
- Damp surveys to pinpoint leaks, ventilation problems, or structural causes.
- Compliance with UK health and housing standards.
Seeking professional mould removal support
For small patches of mould that have yet to spread, DIY mould removal is a viable option. Using the right cleaning chemicals and equipment can save you money and provide you with a mould free property. However, this method doesn’t guarantee that the roots have been killed or that the root cause has been identified and remediated, both of which will result in the mould coming back over time and in most cases spreading.
Ideal Response has over 20 years experience dealing with mould infestations in both domestic and commercial properties throughout the UK. Our mould removal process ensures a mould free property and long-lasting results. We have examples of successful jobs dating back years and countless customer reviews showcasing the level of service we provide our customers.
Prevention Tips: How to Stop Red Mould from Returning
Preventing mould growth requires tackling moisture at its source. Here are effective steps:
- Improve ventilation
- Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Keep trickle vents open on modern windows.
- Control condensation
- Wipe down windows and sills daily in colder months.
- Avoid drying clothes indoors where possible.
- Use a dehumidifier in problem areas.
- Fix leaks quickly
- Check roof tiles, gutters, and bathroom sealants.
- Repair leaking pipes immediately with help of a professional leak detection service provider.
- Regular cleaning
- Clean bathroom surfaces weekly with an anti-fungal cleaner.
- Ensure soap residue and standing water are removed.
- Professional surveys
- If mould keeps returning, arrange a professional damp and mould survey to identify underlying causes.
Conclusion: Don’t ignore red mould
Red mould is often dismissed as harmless, but it is a clear warning sign of excess damp and poor ventilation. Whether caused by bacteria like Serratia marcescens or mould fungi, it poses health risks and can escalate into more serious mould infestations if untreated.
Under Awaab’s Law and UK housing regulations, mould is a recognised hazard that landlords and property owners must address urgently.
If you’ve spotted red or black mould in your property, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Book a professional mould survey today. Contact our expert team by phone or complete our online form to protect your home and your health.
Red mould in UK homes: Frequently asked questions
What is red mould in my bathroom?
Red mould is often caused by Serratia marcescens, a bacteria that thrives in damp, soapy environments. It can also be fungi like Fusarium.
Is red mould dangerous?
Yes. While not as toxic as black mould, red mould can trigger asthma, allergies, and infections in vulnerable groups.
How do I get rid of red mould permanently?
DIY cleaning offers only short-term results. Professional remediation and a damp survey are necessary to fix the root cause.
Does red mould mean my home is unsafe?
Not always, but it indicates excess moisture or poor ventilation. Ignoring it increases risk of black mould growth.
Can landlords be held responsible for mould under UK law?
Yes. Under Awaab’s Law and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), landlords must address damp and mould promptly.
Is red mould common in the UK?
Yes. Due to condensation and damp-prone housing stock, many UK homes experience red mould in bathrooms and kitchens.
Kayleigh Owen - Technical Account Manager
With years of dedicated experience in the disaster recovery industry, Kayleigh Owen brings a precise and insightful approach to every project. Holding a BSc Hons Degree, Kayleigh specialises in construction and major loss, expertly navigating the complexities of large-scale fire and flood events. Having spent her entire industry career at Ideal Response, she has honed a deep understanding of what it takes to restore properties and lives with efficiency and empathy. Kayleigh believes that meticulous planning and clear communication are the cornerstones of transforming disaster into recovery, ensuring every client receives not just a solution, but true peace of mind.
