Mould can cause serious issues in buildings. If you’re looking for specialist mould identification, testing, or removal services, choose Forensic Specialists.

What is mould?

Moulds are naturally occurring organisms that play an important role in the earth’s ecosystem. However, when mould shows up in a home or building, it can cause serious problems. Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated environments and can grow in and on many common materials such fabrics, carpets, walls, paper, timber, and plumbing.

New Zealand has a reputation for poorly ventilated and damp buildings. Though tenants can take action to prevent mould, in New Zealand landlords are legally obliged to provide tenants with healthy accommodation. The new Healthy Homes Standards are being rolled out over the next few years, which have clear standards regarding mould and dampness in homes.

Why is mould a problem?

Not all moulds are toxic, but the presence of mould in a home generally indicates issues with ventilation and heating. Moulds reproduce via spores and prolonged exposure to spores can cause congestion, respiratory infections, and exacerbate asthma and existing allergic conditions.

Mould is not only bad for human health, it can also cause major structural damage to buildings because it’s a fungus that breaks down organic matter. Over time, hidden mould can eat through timber, an issue that can be particularly pronounced in older or heritage buildings.

Our services

At Forensic Specialists we have over 40 years of experience detecting moisture, mould and other contaminants in commercial and residential properties in New Zealand. If you suspect your building has a mould issue, we are able to perform biological tests, inspections, and issue clearances for your property.

Our services include:

Mould identification and location

Excess moisture is usually the source of mould growth. Determining the source of unwanted moisture in a building is a critical step in preventing mould and bacterial growth. Testing and identifying the types of microorganisms present is important for determining the causes of fungal growth and establishing an appropriate removal process.

Mould can grow almost anywhere, including in hidden places like wall and ceiling cavities, behind wallpaper linings, or in subfloor spaces. Unseen mould growths can still be harmful to human health.

Signs that moulds are present can include dampness, a ‘musty’ smell, discoloration, and warped or sagging walls or ceilings. If you suspect that you have mould in your workplace or home, Forensic Building Services can conduct mould testing to help confirm and identify the sources and causes of mould contamination as well as provide advice regarding its removal.

Advanced mould testing services

Forensic Specialists provide a variety of biological testing services. This can include a basic inspection confirming the presence of mould species. More thorough inspections involve collecting multiple samples and a moisture assessment.

Mould removal advice

We provide advice about the best methods for proceeding with safe and efficient mould removal.

Clearance inspection and documentation

Following mould removal work, Forensic Specialists can conduct a clearance inspection and perform tests to ensure that the mould has been properly removed. We’re able to issue documentation stating that the mould issue has been resolved

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Servicing: Auckland & Northland

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