It has been estimated that up to 20% of the UK housing stock is significantly affected by dampness and associated with mould growth. The effects on the health of the occupants of affected homes are well documented. The recent imposition of VAT at 17.5% on domestic fuel is generally regarded as likely to worsen the problem. However, this deteriorating situation puts me in mind of a recent study tour to Canada where the problem of dampness in housing is being tackled very differently to the United Kingdom. Are there any lessons to be learnt?