As Australians, we pride ourselves on our sunburnt country, our rugged landscapes, and our generally enviable lifestyle. But lurking beneath the surface of our picturesque homes, there's a hidden problem that's leaving some residents, including expats, utterly speechless and in dire straits. It's a problem that's not only damaging to our health but also to our belongings, and it's an issue that's far more common than many of us might think.

Sophia, an expat who moved from the bustling city of Los Angeles to Sydney's eastern suburbs, found herself in a battle with this hidden menace within just six months of settling into her new home. The culprit? Black mould – a silent, creeping fungus that can cause severe health issues and property damage.

Her story begins with a mysterious and severe skin reaction. Rashes and hives consumed her body, leading to a reliance on antihistamines and eventually steroids to manage the symptoms. But the relief was temporary, and the hives returned with a vengeance, prompting Sophia to investigate her home environment. To her horror, she discovered black mould spreading across her spare bedroom ceiling.

Sophia's previous allergy tests in California had revealed a sensitivity to mould and dust, so the discovery of mould in her Sydney home was a significant concern. Despite the fresh paint on the walls when she moved in, the problem was lurking, unseen. It was only after her neighbours mentioned past mould issues that the full extent of the problem became clear.

An expat broke out in hives all over her body including her back, chest, arms and legs due to moulds in her apartment. Credit: Sophia In Sydney

The situation escalated when Sophia's face swelled up dramatically after returning from a trip to the US, where her symptoms had subsided. This time, the mould infestation had taken over her bedroom ceiling, and a mould specialist's advice was unequivocal: she needed to move out.

The impact of mould on Sophia's life was devastating. Not only did it affect her health, but it also ruined many of her personal belongings, including clothes, shoes, bags, and even a sentimental guitar. The financial and emotional toll was immense, and Sophia's story is a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can exist in our homes.

Sophia's experience is not an isolated incident. Other Sydneysiders have shared similar tales of mould-induced health problems, including Katie Williams, an ex-beach sprinter and Big Brother Australia contestant, who suffered rashes and severe asthma. Another tenant documented the rapid spread of mould in her home, highlighting the poor living conditions she endured.

Mould is a pervasive issue in Australian homes, particularly in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, where the climate can contribute to its growth. Leo Patterson Ross, CEO of the Tenants’ Union of NSW, notes that disputes over mould are common between renters and landlords, often with tenants being blamed for the problem. However, the issue frequently stems from the building itself, with older homes lacking proper heating and ventilation.

Dr Nicola Willand from RMIT points out that many people are unaware of the health risks associated with cold, damp homes. Even in summer, when temperatures rise, mould can still form, posing a threat to our health and homes.

So, what can you do if you suspect mould in your home? It's crucial to act quickly. Here are some steps to take:

1. Identify the source of moisture: Mould thrives in damp environments, so look for leaks, condensation, or poor ventilation.
2. Clean the affected areas: For small patches of mould, cleaning with a solution of water and vinegar can help. Always wear protective gear to avoid inhaling spores.
3. Seek professional help: For larger infestations, it's best to consult a mould removal specialist.
4. Communicate with your landlord or agent: If you're renting, report the issue immediately and request urgent repairs.
5. Protect your health: If you have allergies or respiratory issues, it's essential to minimize exposure to mould.

The story of Sophia and others like her serves as a cautionary tale for all Australians. Mould in our homes is not just an unsightly nuisance; it's a serious health hazard that requires our attention. As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we must be vigilant in maintaining our homes and advocating for our well-being.

You can watch her video below:

Credit: @sophiainsydney / TikTok​

Key Takeaways

• An expat in Sydney has experienced severe hives and skin reactions potentially due to black mould in her home.
• After identifying black mould in her apartment, her symptoms were alleviated when she left the property but returned upon coming back.
• The expat has been forced to discard many belongings and move out due to the extent of the mould infestation.
• The issue of mould in Australian homes, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne, is a common problem that often leads to disputes between renters and landlords.

Have you encountered mould in your home? What steps did you take to address it? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let's raise awareness about this 'crazy' issue plaguing Aussie homes. Your story could help others recognise the risks and take action to protect their health and homes.

 

[Mr Chips]

I have come across mould in one of my older homes, particularly in the bathroom where ventilation was a bit restricted. But as they say, "cleanliness is next to Godliness". So since then, I have had a stricter cleaning regime and the mould is spotted before it becomes an issue. Even in my lovely townhouse that I now live in I keep up a good cleaning cycle and have no issues with mould. A couple of tips from me:
1. Don't leave wet clothes/towels etc lying around (especially in the bathroom) as this can encourage mould growth.
2. Keep areas likely to have higher moisture content (laundry and bathrooms) well-ventilated to reduce moisture again.
3. It can be tricky in tropical climates, but a fan placed intelligently after showering/washing for 5 minutes can reduce moisture.

In closing, I would say that the 2 things that need to happen are a good cleaning plan and as much of a moisture reduction plan as possible. It can be easier than you might think. Hope this is of help and have a great mouldless day.