Mould vs House
Mould - it can startle even the steeliest of property owners, landlords and tenants. But there’s no need to panic: finding mould is not the end of the world, but it does need to be attended to immediately. Mould can have a seriously negative impact on a person’s health – and if found in your investment property, may even lead to legal repercussions if unattended. C&G has put together a simple guide on what to do when you find mould, where to check for it and how to get rid of it.
What is mould?
Moulds are microscopic organisms that occur in nature to break down organic matter and recycle nutrients in the environment. They need a food source to grow, such as leaves, wood, paper and like most things in the fungi family – warmth, moisture and oxygen. Mould releases tiny spores into the air which are then inhaled by humans and pets. This can lead to a variety of health problems from skin rashes, chest and sinus infections and headaches to fatigue and irritated eyes.
What causes mould?
Moisture and warmth is the main cause of mould, so it’s particularly common in coastal areas and humid climates. Other environmental elements which lead to mould include leaking pipes, roofs and condensation. Poor ventilation is also a factor, as steam and water evaporating into the air causes humidity which creates the perfect climate for mould. We also suggest not leaving wet clothes to dry too long or leaving them on surfaces in your home – this can create damp and you guessed it – mould!
Where is mould most often found?
Make sure you check roofs, gutters, basements or handyman sheds and your bathroom regularly for mould as these are areas exposed to the largest amount of moisture and condensation. If you have a weatherboard home, be sure to inspect the wood - particularly after long periods of rain.
What can be done to remove mould?
Prevention is the key when it comes to mould. Make sure your home has good ventilation, especially in the bathroom. Ensure vents and air ducts are not clogged, wipe away excess moisture from walls and windows, air carpets and rugs regularly and fix any leaks as soon as they occur. If you have already noticed mould in your property, contact a qualified mould removal specialist in the Bayside area to take care of it for you (if you require a referral, please contact Chisholm & Gamon for a list of preferred professionals). Similarly, if you’re a tenant in a rental property, make sure you inform your property manager immediately.