Nicotine Spots?

Question

The bathroom where I used to live had these yellow-brown spots that would appear randomly...when we'd wipe them away, they'd often reappear. There was also some bubbling on the ceiling. What's up with that? Nicotine from previous renters, perhaps?

Answer 1

The walls and ceiliing have been mouldy in the past and rather than get it off before painting they have just painted right on over it so its resurfacing through the paint. The bubbling is the paint coming unstuck from the steam and moisture. The paint used may not have been suitable for wet areas either and this will make it bubble.

Answer 2

It could be, but it also may have something to do with the ceiling on the inside. I'd get someone out to check it.