Control Mould at your Property

Water droplets on colder surfaces can soak through into the underlying material of walls and ceilings, creating damp patches that are ideal for mould growth.

Mould is a type of fungi that requires moisture to grow and reproduce. It can be black, grey, green, or white and can look like a stain or smudge. Moulds are found everywhere — indoors and outdoors — and can grow on various materials including food, furniture, fabrics, carpets, walls, paper, timber, and plumbing. They can also develop around the exterior of homes in decaying leaves, damp soil, and compost.

Mould thrives in homes with the right conditions — cold temperatures, darkness, dampness, poor ventilation, and inadequate heating. It is most commonly seen in bathrooms or kitchens where extraction fans are not regularly used to remove moisture.

Mould is a fungus that breaks down dead material. If allowed to take hold in a home, it grows quickly given the ideal conditions: moisture, warm air, and organic materials to feed on such as wood, carpet, and dust.

After a shower, bath, boiling a kettle, or cooking, humidity levels in your bathroom or kitchen can skyrocket. Without an extractor fan or adequate ventilation, this humidity turns into condensation and can affect the entire house.

Closing the door while using the bathroom or kitchen helps contain moisture. Opening a window afterwards allows excess moisture to disperse naturally — preventing condensation from settling on walls, ceilings, and windows, which can lead to mould problems over time.

Indoor air quality can also be significantly impacted by chemicals from household cleaners, hairsprays, deodorants, and air fresheners. Opening windows regularly helps clear the air and reduce chemical buildup.

Hardwood floors and carpets can harbour dust mites, dirt, hair, and fungus — all of which can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and eczema. If bathroom or kitchen carpet becomes wet regularly, consider replacing it with tiles or laminate flooring to eliminate these breeding grounds. Where carpet is retained, ensure it is cleaned regularly and kept well-ventilated.

Proper ventilation is the most effective solution for preventing condensation and mould in homes. Adequate airflow combined with maintaining a consistent temperature are essential for keeping humidity levels under control.

When humidity accumulates, excess moisture in the air is released as condensation — especially on cold surfaces. Without adequate ventilation, this moisture has nowhere to go, creating the perfect environment for mould to develop. Controlling mould at your property is essential for the health and safety of all occupants.

Black mould is a common type of mould that can be harmful to health. It can generally be treated using standard methods. However, the more serious variety — known as 'toxic black mould' or Stachybotrys — can have more significant health implications and may require professional remediation.

To remove non-toxic mould, use a non-toxic cleaning solution and thoroughly dry the affected surface afterwards. Wear thick clothing, rubber gloves, and a face mask to avoid inhaling fumes or spores during the process.

Mould spores and building dust — often invisible to the naked eye — can cause adverse health effects and lead to more serious mould problems over time. A small black area on a wall or ceiling can quickly develop into a full mould infestation, contaminating the interior air and causing a range of illnesses.

As a responsible property owner, regularly inspect your home for signs of mould. If an infestation is found, act promptly. Even when weather conditions are not conducive to mould growth outdoors, specific interior issues can still cause mould to develop within walls and ceilings.

To eradicate mould effectively, it is crucial to act as soon as it is identified. Follow these recommended steps:

• Avoid dry brushing mould — this spreads spores into the air and across surfaces.
• Use a solution of 20% water and 80% white vinegar as an effective, natural mould remover.
• Avoid using bleach — it has a high pH and is ineffective at killing mould at the root level.
• Wipe surfaces with a mould remover and a clean cloth, changing the cloth frequently to prevent spreading spores.
• Dispose of used cloths in a sealed plastic bag immediately after use.
• Repeat the treatment regularly to help prevent mould re-growth.
• Never reuse a dirty cloth during the cleaning process, as it may spread the infestation further.