What to Do About Mould: A Guide for Property Managers
As a property manager, dealing with mould is a critical issue. This guide explains how to identify mould, understand the health and structural risks, and highlights why professional remediation is the only safe and effective long-term solution.
Mould is more than just an unsightly stain on a wall—it’s a serious issue that can impact the health of tenants and the structural integrity of a property. For strata managers, property agents, and building owners, addressing mould quickly and effectively is not just a best practice; it's a legal and ethical responsibility.
This guide provides a clear roadmap for managing mould issues in your properties, from initial identification to professional remediation.
The Hidden Dangers of Mould in Your Property
Mould grows in damp, dark environments and can quickly spread throughout a building. Ignoring it can lead to two major problems:
Health and Hygiene Risks: Mould spores can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and other health problems, particularly for sensitive individuals. This can lead to tenant complaints, liability issues, and a compromised living environment.
Structural and Financial Damage: The presence of mould is a sign of a deeper moisture problem. Left untreated, it can cause wood to rot, drywall to crumble, and insulation to become ineffective, leading to expensive repairs down the line.
A Property Manager's Checklist: How to Identify Mould
As a property manager, your first step is a thorough inspection. Here’s what to look for:
Look for Visible Signs: Mould can appear as black, green, or white patches on walls, ceilings, and floors. Check behind furniture, under sinks, and in other hidden areas.
Listen to Your Nose: The smell of mould is often a better indicator than sight. A persistent, musty, or earthy odour is a strong sign of its presence, even if it’s hidden from view.
Check High-Risk Areas: Focus your inspections on areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, laundry rooms, and areas around windows where condensation may occur.
Why Professional Mould Remediation is Essential
Simply cleaning mould with bleach or a store-bought spray is not a permanent solution. Without addressing the root cause, it will inevitably return. Professional remediation is the only way to ensure the problem is solved for good.
Expert Diagnosis of the Cause: Professionals don’t just remove the mould; they identify the source of the moisture, whether it's a leaky pipe, a roof issue, or poor ventilation.
Safe & Effective Removal: Specialists use industrial-grade equipment and containment procedures to safely remove the mould without spreading spores throughout the property.
Preventing Recurrence: A professional remediation plan includes strategies to prevent mould from returning, giving you and your tenants peace of mind.
Need to Deal with Mould in Your Property?
Don't wait for mould to become a bigger problem. Find a trusted mould remediation specialist on Build-Surety who can provide an expert diagnosis and a lasting solution.
Find a Mould Remediation Specialist(Linked to: build-surety.com.au/mould-remediation)
