Dehumidifiers are not air purifiers. A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air and are useful in homes in humid climates, poorly ventilated rooms, basements, and areas with chronic condensation (bathrooms, laundry, kitchen or bedrooms). In contrast, air purifiers clean the air by removing particulate matter and/or chemicals. An air purifier with a H class HEPA filter is generally very effective to reduce exposure to airborne mould. However, neither dehumidifiers nor air purifiers fix water damage or mould-contaminated materials on their own, so they should be used as part of a broader moisture and mould management plan in your home or rental.

Mould in a rental property can absolutely affect your health, just as it can in any home, and renters are often exposed for longer because they have limited control over repairs. If you see visible mould, notice musty odours, or experience symptoms that improve when you are away from your rental, document everything with photos and dates and notify your rental provider (landlord) or property manager in writing (which you are obliged to do under the Tenancy Regulations). Ask for prompt investigation and repair of leaks, dampness, and mould-affected materials, and if the problem is not resolved, seek advice about your rights as a tenant through your local tenancy authority, health department, or legal service.

Microbial growth starts within 24 to 48 hours after a leak, overflow, or flood if building materials are not dried quickly and thoroughly. As water sits in carpets, underlay, plasterboard, timber, and insulation, it penetrates deeper into the structure, making effective restoration more complex and expensive and increasing the risk of long-term mould problems. Rapid action to stop the water, extract standing water, remove non-salvageable materials, and professionally dry the building is essential to prevent extensive mould growth after any water event.

Yes, mould and bacteria are commonly found in air conditioners, ductwork, and HVAC systems when there is moisture, dust, and organic debris for it to feed on. Dirty filters, blocked condensate drains, and poorly maintained units create perfect conditions for mould and bacteria, which can then be circulated throughout your home every time the system runs. Regular servicing, filter cleaning and changes, proper drainage, and professional cleaning of contaminated components are crucial to maintain healthy indoor air quality and prevent mould spreading via your cooling and heating system.

To prevent mould in bedrooms and wardrobes, focus on keeping spaces dry, warm enough, and well-ventilated and NEVER use a humidifier! Avoid pushing beds and furniture tightly against cold external walls, leave a small gap for air flow, and do not overfill wardrobes so air can move around clothing and shoes. Avoid curtains in front of single pane windows, and open windows when outdoor conditions are warm and dry, remove condensation on windows and walls promptly, and clean windows monthly so moisture and food does not accumulate and create ideal conditions for mould.

Mould testing can be helpful to quantify fungal particulate in the home especially when you suspect the mould is hidden, have little visual data (no visible mould or water staining, no odour), have health symptoms no one can explain (such as recurrent respiratory symptoms or fatiguing syndrome) and the symptoms are worse when you are in your home. In many cases, the visible evidence – musty odours, water staining, condensation, and health symptoms that improve when you leave – is enough to justify fixing moisture problems and removing mould-affected materials. When testing is indicated, a trained Mould Testing Technician, Building Biologist, or Indoor Environmental Professional can select the most appropriate methods (such as spore trap air samples, surface sampling, or dust testing) and interpret the results in the context of your building, not just a lab print-out.

Mould stains are the discolouration left behind on surfaces after active growth has occurred, whereas active mould growth means the organism is currently alive and able to release spores and fragments into your indoor air. Microbes generally emit odours when they are growing. Even when a surface has been cleaned, staining may remain because pigments and damage are embedded within the material, especially on timber, plasterboard, silicone and grout. From a health perspective, dead mould can still and often does make people sick, so the goal is to physically remove the mould as opposed to ‘bleaching’ it..

Yes, new and energy-efficient homes can have significant mould problems if moisture is trapped and ventilation is inadequate resulting in interstitial condensation and mould in wall assemblies for example. Modern construction tends to be more airtight, which is excellent for energy performance but can backfire when there is poor exhaust in bathrooms and kitchens, unventilated roof spaces, cold bridges in walls, or wet materials sealed up during the build. The result is condensation on cold surfaces, hidden mould behind wardrobes and in wall cavities, and health complaints in occupants who are surprised that a “brand-new home” can still be making them sick. The key here is to encourage air flow and open windows on warm dry days, and heat the entire house during winter time to prevent cold pockets that increase the risk of condensation.

If you need to relocate during mould remediation, choose temporary accommodation that is as dry, well-ventilated, and low in “musty” or chemical odours as possible. Before committing, spend time in the space and notice whether you experience symptoms such as congestion, coughing, headaches or fatigue, and whether these are better, worse, or the same as in your current home. Avoid obviously damp or poorly maintained properties, ask about any history of leaks or flooding, and prioritise accommodation with good natural light, functioning exhaust fans, and windows that can open to allow regular airing.

If you lived in a damp home or home that had high levels of mould in your living space or bedroom, there’s a good change your soft furnishings and bedding will be contaminated. Unfortunately, these items cant be remediated effectively and time and time again, Ive seen clients contaminate the next home by dragging these items from one place to another. Don’t buy second hand or receive hand me down furnishings and don’t store them in an unconditioned space such as a garage, shed or storage container, as this is a common cause of contamination.