FAQs

We’ve been asked many questions about mould and how it is treated.

We know that choosing mould remediation can feel daunting. There’s a lot of misinformation out there and many unqualified operators. We’re here to help. Mould Mates is an IICRC-accredited firm, qualified to the highest standards in professional mould remediation.

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Are the chemicals you use dangerous?

No - Most of the chemicals we use are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

What causes mould to grow inside homes?

Mould grows when excess moisture is present. Common causes include water leaks, poor ventilation, high indoor humidity, condensation, flooding, or plumbing issues. Mould spores are always present in the air, but they only grow when moisture conditions allow. When humidity is above 55% mould will begin to grow.

It's just a bit of bathroom mould. Isn't that normal?

A small amount of mould in wet areas can be common, but that doesn't mean it's safe. The IICRC — the international body that sets mould remediation standards — classifies even low-level mould environments as potentially hazardous because of invisible toxins called mycotoxins. What looks like "just a bit" on the surface can be much bigger behind walls, under flooring, or in ceiling cavities.

Is mould dangerous to my health?

Yes. Mould exposure can trigger respiratory problems, allergies, asthma flare-ups, headaches, fatigue, and skin or eye irritation. Long-term exposure, especially in damp environments, can significantly impact indoor air quality and overall health.

My parents' house had mould and we all turned out fine.

You might have, and we're glad. But the research shows not everyone does. A peer-reviewed birth cohort study found children exposed to mould for more than two years were three times more likely to fall into the low IQ range. Just because symptoms aren't obvious doesn't mean there's no effect. The science has come a long way since our parents' generation, and now we know more about what mould actually does to the body.

Why does mould keep coming back after cleaning?

Mould returns when the underlying moisture source is not resolved. Surface cleaning alone may remove visible mould, but without fixing leaks, ventilation, or humidity issues, mould will regrow. Surface treatment is a cheap quick bandaid fix which often will not completely solve the mould problem.

We've lived here for years and we're all fine. Wouldn't we know if mould was a problem?

Not necessarily. Mould-related health issues often show up as things you'd blame on something else — tiredness, blocked sinuses, kids getting sick more often, trouble sleeping. Research shows these symptoms build gradually, so most families don't connect the dots until the problem is already serious. A proper inspection can tell you for sure.

Can mould cause respiratory issues or allergies?

Yes. Mould spores and fragments can irritate the respiratory system, aggravate asthma, and cause allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, sinus congestion, and shortness of breath.

Can't I just clean it myself with something from the supermarket?

Surface sprays kill what you can see, but they don't address the root cause — moisture — and they don't remove mycotoxins that have already spread into the air and materials. The IICRC S520 standard specifically requires physical removal of mould contamination before any antimicrobial treatment. Without that, you're wiping the surface while the problem keeps growing underneath.

Is mould more dangerous for children, elderly people, or pets?

Yes. Children, elderly individuals, pets, and people with asthma or weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to mould exposure and may experience stronger or longer-lasting symptoms.

How do I know you won't just come in, find a 'problem,' and quote me thousands?

We follow the IICRC S520 standard, which requires independent post-remediation verification. That means a separate inspector confirms the work was done properly — we don't mark our own homework. We also explain exactly what we find, show you photographic evidence, and walk you through your options before any work begins.

Should I leave the house during mould remediation?

It depends on the job. Once we have conducted a thorough inspection and diagnosed the problem we can have a discussion about what is required. More often than not, it is not necessary.

This feels like a scare tactic to sell me something I don't need.

We get it — there's a lot of fear-based marketing out there. That's why everything we share is backed by peer-reviewed research, not opinions. The World Health Organisation links indoor mould to 1 in 5 asthma cases. A six-year university study found children in mouldy homes scored significantly lower on cognitive development tests. These aren't sales claims — they're published findings you can look up yourself.

Is 'mould poisoning' even a real thing? My doctor's never mentioned it.

Most GPs aren't trained to identify mould-related illness — it's not part of standard medical education in Australia. But the condition is well-documented in peer-reviewed literature. Mycotoxin exposure has been shown to dysregulate the immune system, damage respiratory lining, and impair cognitive function. If you suspect mould is affecting your health, we can help you get the evidence you need to have that conversation with your doctor.

Do you remove mould or just kill it?

It depends on the surface. Porous materials require removal, Non-porous or sometimes semi-porous often can be treated rather than removed.

I rent, so isn't that the landlord's problem?

Your landlord is responsible for fixing the source of the moisture, yes. But while you wait for that to happen, your family is still breathing it in. We can assess the situation, give you a clear report you can take to your landlord or property manager, and help you understand what's actually going on in your home right now.

How long does it take?

Every job in different but small jobs may only take a day for treatment to be complete.

I can't really afford this right now.

That's fair, and we won't pretend it's free. But consider this: the average Australian family spends thousands a year on GP visits, medications, and sick days that may be connected to poor indoor air quality. A mould assessment gives you a clear answer — and if there's no issue, you've bought peace of mind. If there is, you've caught it before it gets more expensive to fix.

Are the products you use safe for families and pets?

Yes. We use professional-grade products designed for indoor environments and apply them using controlled methods. Safety precautions are always followed.

I just don't want someone coming into my house and judging how we live.

We're not here to judge — mould is often a building problem, not a cleanliness problem. It can be caused by moisture, ventilation, and construction issues. Some of the worst cases we've seen are in newer builds. This isn't about how you keep your home. It's about what's happening inside the structure itself.

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Call us:

0431484505

Email us:

Currumbin QLD 4223, Australia

Currumbin, QLD, 4223, Australia

0435 219 425

Office hours: Monday-Sunday 6am - 9pm

Servicing: Brisbane, Gold coast & Northern Rivers

Currumbin, QLD, 4223, Australia

0435 219 425

Office hours: Monday-Sunday 6am - 9pm

Servicing: Brisbane, Gold coast & Northern Rivers

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