Skip to content
  1. Do it online
  2. Login
  3. Have your say
  4. My Durham

Find out about changes to our services and Christmas opening times on our Festive information page. To find out when your bin will be collected over the festive period, visit Changes to County Durham bin collections at Christmas.

Due to maintenance, the following systems will be unavailable from 11.45am on Tuesday 24 December until 8.00am on Thursday 2 January: our online Council Tax, business rates and housing benefit services, and our welfare assistance form. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Traumatic damp


Traumatic dampness in houses typically refers to moisture problems that arise from sudden events or incidents.

Such as:

  • Flooding: Heavy rainfall or burst pipes can lead to significant water intrusion, saturating walls, and floors.
  • Water damage: Accidental leaks from appliances (like washing machines or dishwashers) can cause rapid dampness.
  • Structural failures: Damage to roofs, gutters, or foundations can allow water to enter the home unexpectedly.
  • Inadequate repairs: If previous damp issues were not properly addressed, new incidents can exacerbate the problem.

Symptoms of traumatic dampness

  • Damp patches: Visible wet spots on walls or ceilings.
  • Mould growth: Fungal growth in affected areas, which can pose health risks.
  • Musty odours: Unpleasant smells that indicate moisture presence.
  • Peeling paint or wallpaper: Signs of moisture affecting interior finishes.


Share this page

Share this page on Facebook Share this page on Facebook Share this page on Twitter Share this page on Twitter