Things to Look for Before Moving In: Could Mould Be a Health Risk in Your New Rental?
Finding a rental property in Australia and New Zealand is tough at the moment. With rental markets at a near-breaking point, many people are rushing to secure a place to live. However, it’s important to remember that moving in too quickly without considering potential health risks, like mould, could end up costing you more in the long run. Mould is a common but often overlooked issue in rental properties, and living in a mould-infested environment can lead to serious health problems.
While you might be in a rush to secure any rental property, it’s worth taking a moment to assess the space for potential mould risks, as they can significantly affect your health, especially in the long term. Here’s what to look for when inspecting a potential rental, particularly if you're concerned about mould.
1. Visible Mould Stains or Discolouration
Mould typically appears as dark spots or stains on walls, ceilings, and floors. While these marks might seem minor, they could point to an underlying moisture problem, such as leaks or poor building design. Mould can spread quickly if not properly addressed.
Why It’s a Health Risk:
Mould spores can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and exacerbate allergies. These spores can trigger asthma attacks and other serious long-term health issues, especially for young children, the elderly, or anyone with weakened immune systems.
What to Do:
If you spot visible mould stains or water marks on walls, ceilings, or floors, we do not recommend moving in. Even if the landlord promises to clean it up, it’s likely that the mould will return if the underlying moisture issue isn’t resolved.
2. Persistent Musty or Damp Smells
If you walk into a property and notice a persistent damp, musty, or earthy smell, this is a strong indicator that mould may be present or that the property has ongoing moisture issues. These odours are often signs that mould is lurking behind the walls, under carpets, or in less obvious areas.
Why It’s a Health Risk:
A musty smell typically accompanies mould, and prolonged exposure to mouldy environments can negatively affect your respiratory health. This is particularly concerning for people with asthma or allergies. Even if the smell is not immediately noticeable, it can become more severe over time, especially during humid weather.
What to Do:
If the property has a noticeable damp or musty smell, it’s best to walk away. Even if the landlord offers to deodorise the place, this usually masks the problem, not solves it. Mould is likely to return if the source of moisture isn't addressed.
3. Signs of Water Damage or Leaks
Water damage is a prime cause of mould growth. Check areas like windows, doors, ceilings, and walls for water stains, peeling paint, or cracks, particularly after heavy rain. Be sure to check basements, bathrooms, and kitchens, as these areas are more prone to water-related issues.
Why It’s a Health Risk:
Water damage often leads to persistent moisture problems, which create the ideal conditions for mould to thrive. If water leaks aren’t properly repaired, mould can return, causing health problems over time.
What to Do:
If you find visible water damage, ask the landlord or property agent about how the issue will be resolved. If the leak isn’t fixed, it’s better not to move in. A home with water damage could put your health at risk, and ongoing moisture issues are difficult to resolve completely.
4. Inadequate Ventilation and Humid Conditions
Ventilation is key to preventing mould, especially in high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries. Without sufficient airflow, dampness can linger, leading to mould growth. Check whether the property has working exhaust fans, openable windows, or other ventilation solutions.
Why It’s a Health Risk:
Poor ventilation can trap moisture in the air, promoting the growth of mould. Inadequate airflow in high-humidity areas can cause the air quality to drop, leading to respiratory problems and other health issues.
What to Do:
If you notice poor ventilation, such as no exhaust fans or windows that can’t open, consider moving on. Mould can quickly become a recurring issue without proper airflow, which could harm your health over time.
5. Condensation Build-Up on Windows or Walls
Condensation builds up on windows, walls, or ceilings, particularly during cooler weather or after hot showers. While condensation on its own doesn’t mean mould is present, it can lead to dampness in walls, floors, and ceilings, making it easier for mould to grow.
Why It’s a Health Risk:
Excess moisture from condensation can eventually lead to mould growth, which, if left unchecked, can contribute to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and overall poor air quality in your home.
What to Do:
If you notice consistent condensation in the property, especially in bathrooms or kitchens, it’s a good idea to look for other options. Condensation often signals poor ventilation, which can encourage mould growth, and it may be difficult to fully fix.
6. Check for Signs of Past Mould Remediation
Many landlords or real estate agents may have attempted to clean up previous mould problems without properly fixing the root cause. Check for recent paint jobs or repairs that might have been made to cover up mould damage.
Why It’s a Health Risk:
If the root cause of the mould issue (like leaks or poor insulation) hasn’t been addressed, the mould is likely to return. Repeated exposure to mould can aggravate allergies, cause chronic respiratory issues, and lead to other long-term health problems.
What to Do:
Ask the landlord or real estate agent about any past mould issues and how they were resolved. If the issue wasn’t properly fixed or if there are signs that the problem could recur, it’s best not to move in. Ongoing mould problems can lead to health complications that are not worth risking.
7. Damp or Swollen Carpets and Floorboards
If you notice dampness or water stains on the carpets or swollen floorboards, this could be a sign that there’s moisture trapped under the surface, creating the perfect environment for mould to grow.
Why It’s a Health Risk:
Damp carpets and floors can trap mould spores, which will be inhaled when disturbed. Exposure to mould can cause a range of respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health concerns.
What to Do:
If the carpets or floorboards are damp or swollen, consider finding another property. Damp floors are often indicative of an unresolved moisture issue that could lead to persistent mould problems and health risks.
Conclusion: Weighing Health Risks in a Tight Rental Market
In today’s rental market, where competition is fierce and the pressure to secure a place is high, you may feel like you have to settle for any available property. However, it’s crucial not to overlook the long-term health impacts of mould. Mould can significantly affect your well-being and lead to chronic health problems, which are often far worse than any initial inconvenience of looking for another place.
While the rental market in Australia and New Zealand may feel like a desperate situation, we recommend not moving into a property with any of the signs of mould or moisture problems outlined above. Even if the landlord promises to fix it, if the root causes are not addressed, the issue will likely return, impacting your health and quality of life.
If you find a property that seems like a great fit, but it has some potential mould concerns, make sure the landlord or agent fixes the issue properly before signing the lease. In the end, your health should be the priority. It’s worth taking the time to find a rental that not only fits your needs but also provides a safe, healthy living environment.
Note: Be sure to refer to local tenancy laws in Australia and New Zealand for more information on your rights as a tenant, including mould-related issues and health risks.
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