Mould in Homes: The Hidden Health Hazard Most Homeowners Miss
Let’s be real—most of us don’t think twice about that patch of discolouration in the bathroom or a faint musty smell in the laundry. But those could be warning signs of a much bigger issue: mould infestation. And the longer it lingers, the worse it gets.
At Canberra Building Inspections & Reports, we’ve seen mould quietly destroy property value, compromise indoor air quality, and even lead to legal disputes between landlords and tenants. That’s why we always stress the importance of a professional mould inspection.
Why Mould Isn’t Just a Cosmetic Problem
Mould spores spread invisibly through the air, latch onto damp surfaces, and thrive in poorly ventilated areas. What starts as a small patch can quickly lead to:
Respiratory issues in children, the elderly, or anyone with asthma or allergies
Structural damage as mould feeds on timber, drywall, and insulation
Increased pest activity (cockroaches and mites love moist environments)
Rotting floorboards and ceilings
What Causes Mould? And Why It’s Often Hidden
Mould doesn’t show up overnight—it’s usually the result of ongoing issues like:
Water ingress from a leaking roof, cracked tiles, or unsealed windows
Poor plumbing or bathroom waterproofing
Inadequate ventilation in wet areas
Rising damp or condensation build-up
The worst part? You won’t always see it. Many cases we uncover are hidden behind walls or under flooring, only spotted during a full building inspection report.
How a Mould Report Protects You and Your Property
A professional mould report doesn’t just confirm visible patches. It assesses:
Current and potential mould hotspots
Indoor humidity levels
Water penetration or moisture problems
Health and safety risks
It’s especially critical if you’re:
Buying or selling a home
Managing a rental or strata property
Doing home renovations or extensions
Concerned about your family’s health
The Long-Term Costs of Ignoring Mould
Too many homeowners skip inspections and regret it later. Here’s what it can cost you:
Thousands in home repairs after structural damage sets in
Decreased property value during resale
Insurance complications if mould wasn’t disclosed or treated
Health issues that lead to long-term medical costs
Preventative action is always cheaper than remediation.
Simple Steps to Prevent Mould Growth
Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms
Regularly check for leaks in ceilings, roofs and plumbing
Keep indoor humidity under 60%
Seal external walls and windows properly
Book routine building inspections to catch issues early
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Whether it’s visible or hidden, mould is a silent threat to your home and your health. If you’ve noticed musty odours, persistent allergies, or water staining, it’s time to act.
Book your mould inspection, leak detection, or full building condition report with CBIR. We’ll give you peace of mind, clear answers, and a plan to move forward.
FAQs
Can mould make you sick?
Yes. Mould exposure can trigger asthma, allergies, headaches, and fatigue.Is mould always visible?
No. It often grows behind walls, under floors, or in ceiling cavities.What does a mould inspection involve?
It includes moisture testing, visual checks, and an official mould report outlining causes and solutions.Is mould covered by insurance?
Sometimes. But if it results from neglect or wasn’t disclosed, your claim could be denied.How quickly can CBIR inspect my property?
We can typically inspect within 48 hours and deliver your report within 1 week of the visit.