Visible mould, a musty smell or recurring damp patches are reasons to look at both the affected material and the moisture source. Start by recording what you have noticed and deciding whether the situation needs assessment before cleaning.
If water is still entering, there are damaged ceilings or water is close to electrical fittings, keep clear and get appropriate help. For an immediate danger, call 000. For urgent restoration advice, call 1800 739 867.
What to do when you find mould
- Record the history: note when the marks or smell appeared, affected rooms, previous leaks and whether the problem returned after cleaning.
- Take photographs from a safe position: include an overall view and the affected surface. Photos can help explain the concern, but cannot confirm concealed conditions.
- Avoid disturbing the material: do not dry-brush or sand mould, or cut open a wall to investigate it yourself.
- Arrange attention to the moisture source: tell the property owner, manager or relevant qualified trade about leaks or persistent dampness.
Queensland Health’s mould advice explains precautions for cleaning and moisture control. It warns against abrasive dry brushing and mixing cleaning products. If you are concerned about symptoms or your health, seek advice from a health professional. A building assessment does not diagnose a medical condition.
Can I clean a small area myself?
Some limited surface growth may be suitable for cleaning using public-health guidance, the product instructions and appropriate protection. The US EPA’s household mould guidance distinguishes small clean-up tasks from larger problems, contaminated water and concerns involving ventilation systems. Absorbent materials with mould may need removal, and fixing the moisture problem is part of preventing recurrence.
Seek advice before starting if the affected area is extensive, keeps returning, follows sewage or contaminated flooding, involves damaged materials, or may extend into a cavity or ventilation system. Do not rely on colour alone to decide what work is required.
What should a mould assessment explain?
A useful discussion covers the areas inspected, the available moisture history, visible material condition and any limits on access. Ask what remains uncertain and whether further investigation would change the proposed work. Testing, where proposed, should have a clear purpose.
The mould assessment and remediation process should distinguish cleaning, controlled removal, source repairs, drying and any follow-up checks. Clarify what is included, who is responsible for each stage and how access to the property may be affected.
Why does mould keep coming back?
A recurring problem needs a review of the moisture conditions as well as the surface treatment. Tell the team about leak repairs, condensation, previous cleaning and any rooms that remain damp. Ask what follow-up actions are needed and who will carry them out.
Prepare for the next conversation
Have the address, affected rooms, incident history and access arrangements ready. If an insurer is involved, ask about the records and authorisation it requires; read our guide to working with your insurer.
For a stable concern, send details and photos to Reztor. If the problem follows a leak, our water-damage restoration page explains the related assessment and drying pathway. The next step depends on findings at the property.