They might be small and difficult to spot, but if you notice a tiny silver insect darting around your home, you could have a significant problem on your hands.
Experts are encouraging homeowners who see a silverfish in their property to immediately check for signs of dampness, reports the Express.
These shiny, teardrop-shaped insects thrive in moist conditions and are particularly fond of areas with water and humidity. If you see one scurrying in or out of your skirting boards or gaps around window sills, it's likely a sign of dampness and moisture within your property.
Unchecked damp can lead to a host of issues, including cracking bricks, rotting joists, decaying plaster, and spreading mould spores. In extreme cases, it can even damage the structure of the property and affect air quality.
Dampness can be caused by a variety of factors, from leaking drainpipes to condensation, ageing damp proofing, or poor ventilation, especially in bathrooms or kitchens where water vapour tends to linger. Identifying the cause can be tricky, but seeing silverfish indoors is usually a sign that there's dampness that needs addressing.
According to Which?, the sooner you spot signs of dampness, the easier it will be to eliminate. It advises people to look for indications on walls such as wet or damp patches, peeling wallpaper, and flaking plaster.
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Other signs to watch out for include damp and musty smells, rotting wood, and the presence of mould and mildew on walls, floors, or ceilings.
Some suggested solutions include using a dehumidifier, making sure your home is properly ventilated, inspecting your gutters for leaks, applying damp-proof paint to your walls and, if necessary, employing a professional to deal with areas impacted by rising damp.
