Summary:

Mould grows when conditions are right. The temperature, lack of sunlight and a moist environment will encourage the growth of mould. Determining the cause and location of the mould growth is essential, as this will determine whether the strata company or the individual resident is required to rectify the damage.

More Information:

In a unit, water could come from a number of sources, a leaking pipe, condensation on windows, steamy bathrooms, a general lack of ventilation, rising damp, etc.  These are some factors which, if left unchanged will provide the perfect environment of mould growth.

Some tips for preventing mould

• Fresh airflow/ventilation through the unit
• Ensure there is adequate ventilation in the bathrooms and laundry
• Cleaning any spills in carpets ASAP
• Treating any mould as soon as it appears
  
  

Example Case:

Mould growth was occurring in the bathroom of a multi storey 1970's unit in Maylands. It was severe at the time the owner occupier alerted the Strata Manager. The floor plan of the unit above was identical so it appeared that the leak may be coming from the shower tray in the unit above.

A building company was sent out to do an inspection, and they were able to identify straight away that there were cracked tiles in the unit above and the grout has disintegrated in many sections. The dampness on the ceiling was in no doubt caused by the unit above and the poor state of repair of their shower.

The strata company arranged for the tiles to be removed, waterproofing to be reapplied and new tiles and grout to be installed. This stopped the water penetrating the unit below and the strata company arranged for the ceiling to be cleaned and made good for the impacted owner.