Mould and Moisture Inspections in Riverstone

We map the visible mould, take moisture readings around it and use thermal imaging on surfaces where hidden damp is suspected. From there we trace the moisture back towards its likely source, inside the house and outside it. The written report then names that likely cause and the building work required to address it.

No. This is a building inspection of visible mould and the moisture behind it, so it does not name mould species or count airborne spores. NSW Health's advice is that since most mould can be seen, testing for it in the home is generally not necessary. If testing is needed, for instance because the source cannot be found, an occupational hygienist can take samples for laboratory analysis.

That is a question for a doctor, not a building inspector. People with asthma, allergies or breathing problems may be more sensitive to mould, according to NSW Health, which suggests seeing your doctor if health problems follow contact with it. Our part is the building: the likely source of the moisture, the repair it points to, and whether further testing is needed.

Condensation is the usual reason. Moist air from showers, cooking and clothes drying condenses on the coldest surfaces, often a ceiling below a gap in the insulation or a corner with little air movement. We check that the exhaust fans run, where they discharge and whether the room can clear its moisture. Under the NCC 2022 condensation provisions, a new house must discharge bathroom, laundry and kitchen exhaust to outdoor air rather than into the roof space.

A leaking pipe, a failed seal at the hob or screen, or a waterproofing defect in the shower are all possible. High moisture readings at the base of the wall on the far side would support one of those. AS 3740 sets the waterproofing requirements for domestic wet areas, and confirming the source may need a plumber, the builder or further testing before the right repair is clear.

They can contribute. In a brick veneer wall, weep holes let water that gets into the cavity drain out above the flashings, and soil, paving or render laid over them keeps that water in. On newer Riverstone homes we look for weep holes that are missing, set too high or not sitting on their flashing, and for ground built up near the damp course.

According to NSW Fair Trading guidance, responsibility follows the cause. The landlord is responsible where mould comes from a defect they did not repair within a reasonable time or from inadequate ventilation, while a tenant may be responsible for trapping moisture, such as by never opening windows or not running the bathroom fan. Tenants must let the landlord or agent know as soon as mould or damp appears, and a report on the building cause gives both parties facts to work from.

The Home Building Act 1989 statutory warranties may apply when the mould is caused by defective building work. Both periods run from completion: six years for a major defect, two years for any other defect. Waterproofing is listed in NSW Government guidance as a major element of a building. Put it to the builder in writing and seek help from Building Commission NSW, and if a warranty deadline is getting close, lodge at NCAT in time instead of waiting.

Sampling, air testing, laboratory work and health advice are not included, and nor is anything destructive such as cutting linings or lifting tiles. Pressure testing of pipes, waterproofing certification and mould cleaning or removal are also outside the job. When the cause could only be confirmed by opening a wall or by a specialist test, the report spells that out and shows where.

It depends on the size of the house and the number of affected rooms, and the instant quote gives you the figure before you book. After the inspection you receive a written report with photographs, moisture readings and the likely cause.

Yes, including Grasslands, Northview, Parrington, Saffron Gardens, Heritage and Botanic Residences, as well as the older streets that predate them. We also inspect in Schofields, Vineyard, Colebee, Melonba and Box Hill, and across the wider north west growth area.