How to treat and prevent mould in your home
Mould can appear in any home, especially after excess moisture, leaks, poor ventilation or periods of high humidity. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk.
Fixing leaks promptly, improving airflow and keeping indoor humidity under control can all help prevent mould from growing. If you notice a small patch of mould, you may be able to clean it with suitable household products. However, for more serious mould issues, it's best to contact a professional mould removal service.
Whether mould is covered by your home insurance depends on what caused it and the terms of your policy.
Why it’s important to deal with mould
Mould isn't just unpleasant to look at. Left untreated, it can affect both your home and your health.
- Some types of mould, including black mould, may pose serious health risks. If you suspect black mould is present, seek professional advice.
- Mould can trigger asthma, allergies and other respiratory problems.
- Over time, mould may damage walls, ceilings and other parts of your home.
- Addressing water damage and mould promptly may also help protect your ability to make an insurance claim if you're covered.
What causes mould in the home?
Mould often develops after storms, flooding or water damage, but everyday household conditions can also create the perfect environment for it to grow.
Water leaks
Leaks from your roof, plumbing or appliances can create damp areas where mould thrives. Storms, burst pipes and flooding can increase this risk.
Poor ventilation
Rooms with limited airflow, such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundries, are common places for mould to develop, particularly if moisture can't escape.
Condensation
Steam from showers, cooking and clothes drying can create condensation on windows and walls. If these surfaces stay damp, mould can begin to grow.
Excess moisture and humidity
High humidity provides ideal conditions for mould spores, particularly in warmer or more humid parts of Australia.
Signs you may have mould
Even if you can't immediately see mould, there are often signs that moisture is causing a problem.
Look out for:
- Musty or damp odours.
- Black, green or white patches on walls, ceilings or other surfaces.
- Peeling paint or bubbling walls.
- Allergy or respiratory symptoms that seem worse indoors.
How to help prevent mould
Preventing mould is usually much easier than removing it.
Control moisture
- Fix leaks as soon as you notice them.
- Dry wet areas promptly after spills, leaks or water damage.
Improve ventilation
- Use exhaust fans when showering or cooking.
- Open windows whenever conditions allow.
- Consider installing additional ventilation if certain rooms remain damp.
Reduce indoor humidity
- Use a dehumidifier if your home is prone to dampness.
- Avoid drying clothes indoors unless the area is well ventilated.
Keep your home well maintained
- Clean gutters regularly.
- Check your roof, seals and plumbing for signs of damage or leaks.
How to remove mould
For small areas
If the affected area is small:
- Wear gloves, eye protection and a face mask.
- Use an appropriate household cleaner or mould removal product according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Avoid dry brushing mould, as this can spread spores into the air.
For larger or recurring mould
If mould covers a large area or continues to return:
- Arrange professional mould remediation.
- Identify and repair the source of moisture before cleaning, otherwise the mould is likely to come back.
What not to do
- Don't paint over mould without treating it first.
- Don't ignore recurring mould, even if it appears minor.
Does home insurance cover mould?
Mould may be covered under Apia Home Insurance if it's the result of an insured event, such as storm damage, flooding or a burst pipe, and your claim is accepted.
If your home becomes unsafe to live in following an insured event, your policy may also cover temporary accommodation, depending on your level of cover and the circumstances of your claim.
If you'd also like cover for your household belongings, Apia Home and Contents Insurance combines building and contents cover in one policy.
Explore Apia Home and Contents Insurance
When mould isn't covered
Home insurance generally doesn't cover mould that develops because of gradual deterioration, poor maintenance or unrepaired leaks.
For full details of what's covered, and any exclusions or limits that apply, always read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
When to call a professional
Consider seeking professional help if:
- Strong mould odours persist.
- You suspect mould is hidden behind walls or ceilings.
- Your home has suffered significant water damage.
- You notice structural damage.
- Health symptoms are getting worse.
- You or someone in your household has a compromised immune system.
Mould prevention checklist
1. Arrange proper mould removal
You may come across home remedies such as vinegar or clove oil online. While they may clean visible mould, they don’t always remove all mould spores or address the underlying cause. For widespread or persistent mould, consider using a professional mould remediation service.
2. Remove or dry wet items quickly
Wet carpets, rugs and upholstered furniture can trap moisture and encourage mould growth. Remove them if possible or use fans and dehumidifiers to dry them thoroughly.
3. Use your air conditioner's dry mode
Many air conditioners have a dry mode, usually shown with a water droplet symbol. This setting helps remove excess moisture from the air. Keep filters clean so your system continues to operate effectively.
4. Repair leaks promptly
Fixing leaks early helps prevent moisture from building up and reduces the chance of mould spreading.
5. Keep humidity under control
Using a dehumidifier in damp areas such as bathrooms, laundries or basements can help reduce moisture levels. Empty and clean the water reservoir regularly.
6. Increase airflow
Run exhaust fans and open doors and windows whenever practical to improve ventilation throughout your home.
7. Clean and dry damp areas
After storms, leaks or everyday household activities, dry damp surfaces as soon as possible to discourage mould growth.
8. Use moisture absorbers in small spaces
Moisture-absorbing products can help reduce dampness in cupboards, wardrobes and other enclosed spaces, although they're generally less effective in larger rooms.
9. Check problem areas regularly
Inspect areas that are more prone to dampness, such as bathrooms, laundries, cupboards and around windows, so you can spot mould early before it spreads.
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Australian Pensioners Insurance Agency Pty Limited ABN 14 099 650 996 is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. The TMD is also available.
The information is intended to be of a general nature only. We do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss incurred as a result of reliance upon it – please make your own enquiries.
The information is intended to be of general nature only. Subject to any rights you may have under any law, we do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss or damage, including loss of business or profits or any other indirect loss, incurred as a result of reliance upon the information. Please make your own enquiries.
