Mould is a common issue in many Australian homes, including strata-titled apartments and units. It has been recognised as a significant indoor pollutant that can harm occupants’ health and even damage building materials.
1 in 5 households reported experiencing mould within the last year across the country.
Why is it a Western Australian Strata Concern
Despite its dry summers, Western Australia isn’t immune to mould. Whilst generally, wetter or more humid regions see more mould, 17% of WA households report issues with indoor mould annually.
Strata properties are often more susceptible to mould due to shared walls, limited cross-ventilation, and common areas like roof cavities or plumbing systems that can go unnoticed when issues arise. Moisture problems in one unit can easily affect others, making early reporting and proactive maintenance essential.
Winter is a higher-risk season for mould
Winter is an especially risky time for strata mould growth in many parts of Australia, including Western Australia. There are two main reasons for this: weather and habits.
Prolonged cold and wet weather means moisture accumulates – rain leaks are more likely, damp soil can cause rising damp in foundations, and there’s less sunlight and warmth to dry out buildings.
Similarly, in winter, windows stay shut, heaters go on, and ventilation drops. That means everyday activities like showers and cooking produce condensation that lingers, especially in tightly-sealed strata units. Add a small leak or drainage issue, and mould can flourish fast.
The hidden impacts of mould
It’s a health issue
Indoor mould is not just an eyesore – it poses real health risks, especially in confined environments like apartments. Health authorities warn that mould associated with damp buildings can trigger respiratory issues, asthma flare-ups, skin irritation, or headaches — particularly for vulnerable residents like children, the elderly, or people with pre-existing conditions. In extreme cases (for example, toxic black mould in a poorly managed environment), occupants could suffer more serious long-term health issues.
Insurance coverage isn’t guaranteed
Mould is not content to stay on the surface of a bathroom ceiling – if left untreated, it can spread into walls, floors and structural elements of a building – a big risk for apartment buildings and complexes. Damp materials like plasterboard, timber, and carpets become breeding grounds. The result is often expensive repairs or remediation.
Most strata insurance policies won’t cover mould unless it results directly from an insured event (like a burst pipe or storm damage). If it’s due to poor ventilation or ongoing neglect, it likely won’t be covered. That’s why prevention and early reporting are so important.
Getting on the front foot
- Inspect ceilings, walls, and window frames for early signs of damp or discolouration.
- Schedule roof and plumbing inspections to check for hidden leaks.
- Ensure extractor fans in kitchens, laundries, and bathrooms are working effectively.
- Clear gutters and downpipes to avoid water overflow into internal walls.
- Check for musty odours or condensation — early signs of poor airflow or dampness.
- Review strata insurance policy and understand what is and isn’t covered when it comes to
- mould damage.
Your strata manager can help arrange inspections, recommend qualified contractors, and clarify your policy coverage. Staying proactive in winter isn’t just about comfort – it’s about protecting your health and your investment.
