Words: Jeff Cross

Mould is a common issue in many homes, and the impact it has on people’s health can vary significantly. Some individuals might not be affected at all, while others can experience serious health issues from exposure to mould spores. Mould isn’t just an unsightly problem—it can be a hidden danger that poses serious risks to the health and well-being of anyone exposed to it.

Mould is particularly common in areas with high humidity, like Queensland or Northern New South Wales. However, not all moulds are the same. Some types of moulds are relatively harmless, but others, such as Aspergillus, can pose severe health risks, especially to individuals with weakened immune systems [see story below]. Health issues related to mould exposure can include respiratory problems, allergic reactions and even chronic conditions if not addressed.

Mould remeditation expert Mark Cornelius says mould is asymptom, while moisture is the root cause. To effectively address a mould problem, finding and eliminating the moisture source is essential. Whether it’s a leaky pipe, poor ventilation or condensation, stopping water intrusion is crucial in preventing mould from returning.

Common places to find mould in homes include bathrooms, basements and areas with poor ventilation, like behind furniture or around windows. Even small patches of mould in these areas should be addressed immediately to prevent the problem from worsening.

To reduce the risk of mould in your home, it’s important to maintain good ventilation, fix any leaks promptly and use dehumidifiers in damp areas. In some cases, professional mould remediation may be necessary, particularly if mould is widespread or toxic strains are present. It’s also worth noting that some states in Australia, like New South Wales, have introduced specific guidelines for managing mould in homes, so checking with local authorities can help you stay informed about best practices.

Key indicators and remediation tips

One key indicator of mould presence is a musty odour.

“If you can smell mould, it’s likely that there’s more of it hidden within your home, even if it’s not immediately visible,” Cornelius says. In such cases, it’s crucial to investigate further and take appropriate action.

Proper ventilation is critical in preventing mould growth. Fellow mould remediation expert Holly Burns emphasises the importance of running exhaust fans during and after showers to remove excess moisture from bathrooms. For homes without vent fans, she suggests using oscillating fans or opening windows, when possible, to reduce humidity levels.

While minor mould issues can sometimes be managed with regular cleaning, professionals should handle more extensive contamination of mould that causes health problems. According to Burns, professional testing, including air sampling and surface swabbing, is crucial in determining the severity of a mould problem. This testing helps identify the type of mould present and the necessary steps for remediation.

One of the most significant concerns for homeowners facing mould contamination is the remediation cost. Unfortunately, many mould issues result from neglect, which is not typically covered by insurance policies. This often leaves homeowners responsible for paying for remediation out of pocket, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the problem. Burns says that while cost is a consideration, the health and safety of the family should be the top priority. If mould is causing health issues, it’s critical to address it promptly, regardless of the cost.

Protecting homes from mould

Mould contamination is a grave issue that can devastate the health of your family. The cleaning and restoration industry can prevent this from happening with the help of the IICRC. The IICRC provides valuable resources. Visit iicrc.org for more information.

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A mould horror story

Nicholas Morse is a young man who now suffers from severe health consequences due to mould contamination in his family home. His mother Janel Rogers and sister Mikayla Morse say that Nicholas has an immune deficiency affecting his ability to fight infections. Earlier this year, he began to experience a series of alarming health issues that ultimately led to the loss of his vision in one eye. What started as a high fever quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation. Despite multiple hospital visits and treatments with intravenous antibiotics, his condition worsened. He developed vision problems, and his doctors initially suspected various causes, from cytomegalovirus (CMV) to varicella. However, after weeks of ineffective treatment, he was referred to a specialist in Miami. By then, Nicholas had lost his vision in one eye entirely.

It wasn’t until a biopsy was conducted at the Mayo Clinic that the true culprit was identified: Aspergillus, a mould that had grown in his eye and spread throughout his body. This mould was later traced back to their home, where it was found in various locations, including Nicholas’s desk and Janel’s bedroom. The discovery came too late to save his eye, and he now faces a future of uncertainty, with ongoing health issues caused by the mould.

The story of Nicholas and his family serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that mould can pose, particularly for those with compromised immune systems.

A version of this article appeared in the November/December issue of CleanFax.

Photo by ARGA on Pexels.