Missing insulation over bath causes mould

This case involved a newly built housing estate, where the tenants of a brand-new home began experiencing an unexpected and frustrating issue. The property featured a shower attachment over the bath, and as the tenants started using the shower and bath regularly, they noticed the ceiling above the bath becoming increasingly mouldy. Understandably, they were upset—after all, they had moved into a new build to avoid precisely these kinds of problems.

Upon investigation, SUS inspected the loft area and discovered the root of the issue: a section of insulation was missing directly above the bath. This oversight created a perfect storm for mould to thrive.

The property’s design included roof vents at the front and back, allowing airflow through the loft. Coupled with the house’s location on high, exposed ground in a greenbelt development, the wind sweeping across the estate generated a persistent cold breeze in the loft. This airflow cooled the uninsulated patch above the bath, creating a cold spot. When warm, humid steam from showers and baths rose, it condensed on the cold ceiling, leading to mould growth.

How or why the insulation was left incomplete remains a mystery, but the consequences were clear. The tenants, expecting a trouble-free experience in their new home, faced a frustrating issue that required immediate attention.

This case highlights the importance of thorough quality control in new builds, particularly in areas susceptible to heat and moisture fluctuations. Something as simple as a missing patch of insulation can lead to avoidable issues like dampness and mould, which compromise the comfort and safety of a new home.