First National Real Estate's Chief Executive Officer Ray Ellis recently spoke with Trevor Chappell on ABC Radio's Afternoon's program about mould in rental properties and who's responsibility it is to treat mould in a property when it appears, the Rental Provider or the Renter.
"A Rental Provider has a responsibility to let a clean house, free of mould and safe for families to live in", says Ray, "though throughout the tenancy it can be the renteres responsibility if they have let mould grow."
"A property manager's routine inspections will pick up on any issues or developing mould and if a renter notices that there appears to be structural mould, they should report it immediately. 99% of the time everything works out well if everyone is working together, this means the renter, rental provider, property manager and maintenance team.
Mould is a health and respitory issue so it is urgent that it be reported as soon as signs of growth appear. If your rental provider is not responding you can see advice from the Ombudsman, VCAT or tenancy unions though I would recommend you go into the real estate offfice and ask for action to be taken," suggests Ray. "This will provoke action".
If you're grappling with condensation and mould, you're not alone. This pervasive issue can strike any type of home construction, causing not only aesthetic concerns but potential health risks. In this post, we'll delve into what mould is, how it grows, and most importantly, how to tackle it head-on.
WHAT IS MOULD?
Mould, a type of fungi, plays a crucial role in the Earth's ecosystem. While mould itself is not toxic, the mycotoxins it produces can be. Exposure to certain types of mould can lead to various health issues, making it imperative to address mould growth promptly.
HOW DOES MOULD GROW?
Mould thrives in damp and poorly ventilated areas, making it a common problem in homes. Understanding the sources of moisture, such as leaks, rising damp, and condensation, is key to preventing mould growth.
MOULD FOR WATER DAMAGE
Water leaks from sources like bathroom ventilation, roof leaks, plumbing issues, and condensation can contribute to mould growth. Identifying and addressing these water sources is crucial in preventing and tackling mould problems.
CONDENSATION AND MOULD IN YOUR HOME: CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS
Condensation often leads to mould growth, especially in areas with high humidity. Improving ventilation is essential to combatting condensation. Learn how to enhance ventilation in your home, from opening windows to regular cleaning of exhaust fans.
WARM MOIST AIR IN THE HOME
Understanding the difference between warm air and warm moist air is essential. Activities like cooking, washing dishes, and using clothes dryers can create warm moist air, contributing to condensation and mould. Discover practical steps to reduce moisture levels in your home.
STEPS TO REDUCE MOULD IN YOUR PROPERTY
Explore a range of preventive measures, from opening doors and windows to keeping surfaces dry and allowing sunlight into your property. Taking these steps can significantly reduce the risk of mould growth.
Open doors and windows at the property to allow air to circulate, particularly in the bathroom during cool weather
Keep bathroom walls, showers, shower curtains, baths and basins as dry as possible. Open the door to allow air to circulate through the room
Clean your bathroom and property regularly. Wipe away moisture on windows and walls to keep them dry
Allow sunlight into the property as much as possible, especially in the bathroom, laundry and kitchen
Wash and dry damp clothes, and dry and air damp shoes outside as soon as possible. To prevent green fluffy mould on clothes and footwear, ensure that they are thoroughly dry before storage. Leave your wardrobe doors open where possible
Remove fruit and vegetables from the plastic wrapping and refrigerate within 27 hours. Discard mouldy items. Keep fresh food in sealed containers or use cling film
Clean the evaporation trays in air conditioners, dehumidifiers and refrigerators frequently
Do not run evaporative air condition systems with water during times of high humidity (over 65%). If the air is feeling humid, run the evaporative air conditioning system without water. Always ensure windows are open when running an evaporative air conditioning system
Regularly clean carpets and rugs in the home to prevent mould spores. Use a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter vacuum cleaner. Most new vacuum cleaners include HEPA filters
If water leaks or spills occur indoors, it is important to clean and dry the area immediately to help prevent mould from growing
Ensure the property does not have any water leaks that are visible. Report any leak to the managing agent
HOW TO REMOVE MOULD?
If you're dealing with existing mould, it's crucial to identify and address the underlying water source first. Protective equipment and effective cleaning solutions are key to safely removing mould. Follow detailed steps to ensure thorough cleaning and prevent reoccurrence.
CONCERNS FOR RENTERS
Renters facing mould or condensation issues in their rental properties can seek assistance from their property managers. Learn about the necessary steps and precautions to address mould problems in rental homes.
In conclusion, dealing with condensation and mould requires a comprehensive approach. By understanding the causes, implementing preventive measures, and knowing how to effectively remove mould, you can create a healthier and mould-free living environment. If you're a renter, don't hesitate to reach out to your property manager for guidance on handling mould issues in your rental property.
If you are experiencing a problem with condensation and/or mould you are certainly not alone, condensation and mould can occur in any type of home construction.
If you are a renter concerned about mould or condensation in your rental property, please get in contact with our dedicated Maintenance Team who can offer assistance and advice on dealing with the issue.
