⚠️ Advice for Aspergillosis Patients: Staying in a Holiday Cottage with Signs of Damp

If you’re living with aspergillosis and arrive at a holiday rental that feels damp or smells musty, you need to take extra care. Even if there’s no visible mould, signs like bubbling paint, wallpaper, or condensation could indicate hidden damp — and increased risk of fungal spores in the air.

🧱 What You Might Notice on Arrival

• Bubbling or peeling paint

• Musty, earthy smell

• Painted-over woodchip or textured wallpaper

• Cold-feeling walls, especially near the floor or windows

• No ventilation — windows sealed shut, fireplaces blocked, rooms feel airless

🏚️ Why Older UK Cottages Are Especially Damp-Prone

Many UK cottages built before the 1920s were constructed without a damp-proof course and without cavity walls.

What does that mean?

• Solid walls (often brick or stone) absorb moisture directly from the ground or air

• No cavity means moisture can easily move from outside to inside

• These buildings rely on breathable materials to allow moisture to escape, such as:

  • Lime plaster

  • Limewash or clay paints

  • Open fireplaces and draughts to keep air moving

When modern renovations seal up the building using airtight windows, damp-proof membranes, wallpaper, and vinyl paints, the house traps moisture inside — which often shows as bubbling paint, musty air, or mould behind wallpaper.

🔧 Modern Changes That Make Damp Worse in Older Homes

💧 Other Potential Sources of Damp in a Holiday Let

🌬️ Why Damp Is a Problem for Aspergillosis Patients

Even if you don’t see mould:

• Moisture encourages fungal growth, especially Aspergillus

• Spores can be airborne and invisible

• Poor ventilation makes the problem worse — spores linger in stagnant indoor air

• Damp + dust + paint = ideal conditions for hidden contamination

✅ What You Can Do Right Now

• Open windows daily, especially in the bedroom and bathroom

• Avoid sleeping in rooms that smell damp or have visible bubbling or mould

• If you brought a HEPA air purifier, use it in your bedroom

• Don’t hesitate to move furniture slightly from cold external walls to reduce condensation

• Monitor your symptoms — if you feel wheezy, unusually tired, or tight-chested, take action early

📩 What to Say to the Property Owner or Letting Agent

“I have a serious lung condition (aspergillosis) and need to avoid damp and mould. I’ve noticed bubbling paint, wallpaper, and a musty smell — likely signs of trapped moisture or poor ventilation. Could I move to another room or more suitable property?”

🧳 Tips for Booking Future Holidays

Before booking:

• Ask if the property has any history of damp, water leaks, or condensation

• Request interior photos — look for bare plastered walls, open fireplaces, and no wallpaper

• Avoid properties that were built before 1920 and have:

  • Vinyl paint

  • Sealed windows

  • Woodchip wallpaper

  • No clear ventilation system

If unsure, choose modern or well-ventilated accommodation.

Bring:

• Portable HEPA air purifier

• Humidity monitor

• Any rescue medication and a copy of your steroid/emergency plan

🛑 Summary for Aspergillosis Patients