How do you stop mould after water damage?
Remove the water and dry the building quickly. Mould needs moisture, so extraction, dehumidification and airflow in the first 24 to 48 hours are the most effective prevention. Wet materials that cannot be dried, such as soaked underlay or contaminated plasterboard, should be removed. If mould is already growing, the moisture source has to be fixed and the affected materials properly removed or cleaned.
Call 1300 050 565, 24/7Why mould follows water damage
Mould spores are present in every building. They only become a problem when they land on something damp. After a leak or flood, carpet backing, underlay, plasterboard, timber and the dust inside wall cavities all give mould what it needs.
Because growth often starts out of sight, behind skirting boards, under flooring or inside cavities, the first sign is frequently a musty smell rather than visible spots.
When to get professional help
Small patches on hard surfaces such as tiles or glass can usually be cleaned. Larger areas, mould that keeps returning, mould in carpet, plasterboard or ceilings, and any mould after sewage or floodwater should be professionally assessed, because disturbing it can spread spores through the building.
How professional mould remediation works
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1
Find the moisture source
Moisture meters and thermal imaging are used to locate leaks, damp materials and hidden wet areas.
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2
Fix the cause
The leak, drainage or ventilation problem is repaired, otherwise the mould will return.
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3
Contain the area
Affected rooms are isolated so spores are not carried through the rest of the building during the work.
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4
Remove what cannot be cleaned
Porous materials with mould growth through them, such as underlay, plasterboard or insulation, are removed and disposed of.
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5
Clean and treat surfaces
Remaining surfaces are cleaned and treated, and the air is filtered with air scrubbers.
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6
Dry and verify
The area is dried to normal moisture levels and checked before repairs are closed up.
Signs of mould after a leak
- A musty or earthy smell that does not go away
- Dark spots on walls, ceilings or skirting boards
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Carpet that smells or feels damp
- Condensation and persistent dampness
- Allergy or asthma symptoms that are worse at home
Common questions
How quickly does mould grow after a flood or leak?
Mould can begin to grow on damp materials within about 24 to 48 hours in warm, humid conditions, and may become visible within days.
Will mould go away once the area dries?
Drying stops mould from growing but does not remove what has already grown. Dried mould and its spores remain on and in the material until it is cleaned or removed.
Does bleach get rid of mould?
Bleach can remove the colour of mould on hard, non-porous surfaces. It does not deal with mould inside porous materials such as plasterboard, timber or carpet, and it does nothing about the moisture causing it.
Is mould after water damage covered by insurance?
It depends on the policy and the cause. Mould resulting from a sudden insured event may be treated differently from mould caused by a long-term leak or poor ventilation. Check your policy or ask your insurer.
Is it safe to stay in a house with mould?
Small areas are usually manageable, but extensive mould can affect people with asthma, allergies or weakened immune systems. If you have health concerns, speak with your doctor and have the property assessed.
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