Not All Mould Is Equal: Identifying Common Household Moulds in Victoria

Common household mould can pose risks to both health and property if left untreated.

Mould is a common issue in homes across Victoria, but not all mould is created equal. Different types of mould can cause different risks to your health and your property. Understanding the types of mould commonly found in homes—and their potential impact—can help you take the right action quickly and effectively.

Here’s a guide to four of the most common household moulds in Victoria.

1. Cladosporium

Cladosporium often grows on damp wood, painted walls, and fabrics, signalling ongoing moisture problems.

What it is:

Cladosporium appears as black or green patches and is often found on wood, painted surfaces, carpets, and fabrics.

Health risks:

Exposure can trigger asthma attacks, skin irritation, and respiratory allergies, particularly in people with sensitivities.

Property risks:

Cladosporium often signals ongoing dampness and can stain and degrade soft furnishings and painted surfaces if left untreated.

2. Aspergillus

Aspergillus mould thrives in dust, insulation, and areas with poor ventilation, posing respiratory health risks.

What it is:

Aspergillus is widespread indoors and outdoors. It thrives in dust, insulation, damp walls, and areas with poor air circulation.

Health risks:

Some species of Aspergillus can cause respiratory infections, especially in people with existing lung conditions or weakened immune systems.

Property risks:

Persistent dampness supporting Aspergillus growth can lead to gradual damage to insulation and plasterboard, increasing repair costs.

3. Penicillium

Penicillium spreads quickly on water-damaged materials like wallpaper and insulation, contributing to property decay.

What it is:

Penicillium appears as blue or green mould on water-damaged materials like wallpaper, carpets, and insulation.

Health risks:

It can aggravate respiratory conditions, cause allergic reactions, and sometimes contribute to sinus infections.

Property risks:

Penicillium spreads quickly on damp surfaces, speeding up the decay of building materials such as timber and plaster.

4. Stachybotrys (Black Mould)

Stachybotrys, or black mould, is a toxic mould linked to serious health effects and structural water damage.

What it is:

Commonly referred to as "black mould," Stachybotrys thrives in areas with persistent moisture problems, like behind walls, under flooring, or around hidden leaks.

Health risks:

Stachybotrys produces mycotoxins linked to symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, respiratory issues, and even neurological effects with long-term exposure.

Property risks:

Presence of black mould often indicates serious, long-term water damage that may compromise structural materials. Professional remediation is usually required.

Why Professional Mould Identification Matters

Mould isn’t just a cosmetic issue — it’s often a sign of deeper moisture problems that could be affecting your home's structure and the health of those living inside it.

Professional assessment ensures:

• Correct identification of the mould species.

• Comprehensive moisture investigation.

• A tailored, safe, and effective remediation plan.

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DIY approaches often miss hidden sources or fail to treat underlying issues, allowing mould to return—and sometimes worsen—over time.

Act Early to Protect Your Home and Health

If you suspect mould in your home, early professional assessment is key. Correctly identifying the type of mould ensures that the right remediation steps are taken — protecting both your property and your family’s health.

At Kepal Building Services, our certified team uses advanced assessment techniques, laboratory testing, and proven remediation methods to address mould safely and effectively. We don't just treat the visible symptoms — we find and fix the root causes, providing clear, comprehensive reporting every step of the way.

If you're concerned about mould in your home, get in touch with Kepal today for a professional assessment and lasting peace of mind.