Knowing how to identify the type of damp affecting your home is the first step in resolving the issue. The three main types of damp are condensation, rising damp, and penetrating damp. Condensation is the most common and occurs when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, leading to water droplets. Rising damp happens when moisture from the ground rises through the walls due to capillary action. Penetrating damp is caused by water leaking through walls, often exacerbated by structural problems like faulty guttering or roofing. Each type has distinct signs and requires specific treatments, making correct identification crucial.