Mould, damp and ventilation in Ballarat rentals
The mould and damp standard and the ventilation standard, and why cold, wet weather makes them the ones Ballarat rentals most often struggle with.
In short: Cold weather keeps windows shut, showers run hot and walls stay cold. That is the recipe for condensation and mould in a rental.
Two standards that work together
A rental must be free from mould and damp caused by or related to the building structure, and bathrooms, toilets, kitchens and laundries must have ventilation. A fan that vents properly goes a long way toward meeting both.
Where we look
Ceilings and walls in wet areas, behind wardrobes on external walls, window reveals and under sinks. A moisture meter helps tell a wet wall from a cold one.
Leaks that feed mould
Breaking down shower grout, a loose kitchen mixer and water damaged cabinet bases all add moisture. They are small repairs that remove a source of damp.
Why Ballarat is harder
Long cool winters and limited drying mean condensation lingers. Older houses with little insulation have cold walls where moisture settles.
What the landlord gets
A list of items marked met or not met against each standard, with photos, so a tradie can fix them before the property is listed.
What it is not
We do not test mould species or air quality, and we do not certify electrical or gas safety.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Ballarat. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
