Your Questions, Answered

  • Most household mould falls into common genera such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, or Cladosporium. In some cases, Stachybotrys (often referred to as “black mould”) may be present.

    The important point is this:
    You cannot reliably identify mould type by colour alone.

    Health risks depend on:

    • Concentration (spore count)

    • Exposure duration

    • Individual sensitivity

    • Underlying health conditions

    Professional mould assessment includes:

    • Moisture mapping

    • Relative humidity analysis

    • Surface or air sampling (where required)

    • Laboratory identification if necessary

    The real issue isn’t just the mould species — it’s the moisture source feeding it.

  • If your property in Australia was built before 2003, there is a high likelihood it contains asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

    Common locations include:

    • Eaves and soffits

    • Fibre cement sheeting

    • Bathroom and kitchen walls

    • Vinyl floor tiles

    • Roof sheeting

    • Fencing

    Asbestos cannot be confirmed visually. The only reliable method is:

    • Controlled sample collection

    • Laboratory analysis (NATA-accredited)

    Disturbing suspected asbestos without testing can release airborne fibres.

    If you're unsure, do not drill, sand, or cut the material.

  • Non-friable (bonded) asbestos

    • Fibres are bound in cement or resin

    • Lower risk if undisturbed

    • Common in fibro sheeting

    Friable asbestos

    • Crumbles easily

    • Releases fibres readily

    • Higher airborne risk

    • Requires licensed Class A removalists

    The classification determines:

    • Legal removal requirements

    • Air monitoring needs

    • Clearance inspection process

  • Costs vary based on scope, location, and risk level.

    Typical ranges in NSW:

    Mould Assessment

    • Small residential inspection: $350–$800

    • Detailed moisture & air testing: $800–$1,500+

    Asbestos Inspection / Sampling

    • Single material sampling: $150–$300

    • Full residential survey: $600–$1,500+

    Air Monitoring during removal

    • $800–$1,200 per day (depending on pump numbers and site complexity)

    Clearance certificates are usually an additional professional service.

  • Mould:

    Small surface mould (<1m²) can sometimes be treated safely by homeowners if:

    • The moisture source is resolved

    • Appropriate PPE is used

    • Porous materials are assessed correctly

    However, visible mould often indicates hidden moisture problems.

    Asbestos:

    DIY removal is strongly discouraged.
    In NSW:

    • Friable asbestos must be removed by a licensed Class A contractor.

    • Even bonded asbestos removal has strict regulatory thresholds.

    Incorrect handling can contaminate an entire property.