Mould and damp areas

What to do when you notice mould, recurring dampness or a musty smell after a leak.

• Why does mould return after cleaning?
• What should I do if I smell a musty odour but cannot see mould?
• Can I clean mould myself?
• What if mould appears after a leak or flood?
• How quickly can mould grow after water damage?
• Is mould a health risk?
• Does bleach kill mould?
• What does mould remediation involve?

Why does mould return after cleaning?

Mould can return when the moisture source remains. A lasting response needs to identify and address the source of dampness, assess affected materials, and dry and clean the area appropriately.

What should I do if I smell a musty odour but cannot see mould?

A musty odour can have several causes, including hidden moisture. Avoid disturbing suspect materials and arrange an assessment if the smell persists, especially after a leak or flood.

Can I clean mould myself?

The right approach depends on the size and location of the affected area and the material involved. Do not disturb extensive growth or mould in wall cavities, carpet or other porous materials; arrange a professional assessment.

What if mould appears after a leak or flood?

Tell the technician when the water event occurred and which areas became wet. They can check moisture, identify affected materials and explain the appropriate drying or remediation steps.

How quickly can mould grow after water damage?

Mould can begin to grow on damp materials within about 24 to 48 hours in warm, humid conditions. This is why fast extraction and drying matter after a leak or flood.

Is mould a health risk?

Mould can trigger allergies, asthma and breathing problems, particularly in children, older people and anyone with a weakened immune system or a respiratory condition. If you have health concerns, speak with your doctor, and have the mould assessed and removed properly.

Does bleach kill mould?

Bleach can remove the visible colour of mould on hard, non-porous surfaces, but it does not deal with mould inside porous materials such as plasterboard, timber or carpet, and it does nothing about the moisture causing the growth. Mould that keeps coming back needs the moisture source found and fixed.

What does mould remediation involve?

Mould remediation finds and fixes the moisture source, contains the affected area so spores are not spread, removes materials that cannot be cleaned, cleans and treats remaining surfaces, and dries the area so the mould does not return.