Black Mould in Wellington Rentals: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know
Why Black Mould Is So Common in Wellington Homes
Wellington’s climate is perfect for mould. We have high humidity, coastal winds, frequent rain and a lot of older homes with poor insulation and single-glazed windows. When warm, moist air hits cold surfaces like ceilings, window frames and external walls, condensation forms. Over time that moisture feeds mould growth.
In rental properties this problem can be even worse. Tenants may have limited control over heating, ventilation and maintenance. If the home is cold and damp, black mould can start appearing in corners, on ceilings, behind furniture or around windows surprisingly quickly.
Is Black Mould Dangerous?
Black mould is more than just an ugly stain. For some people it can cause:
Ongoing coughing or throat irritation
Blocked or runny nose
Worsening asthma or breathing difficulties
Headaches or fatigue
Irritated eyes or skin
Young children, elderly residents and anyone with asthma or weakened immune systems are usually affected the most. Even if you personally feel fine, other people living in or visiting the home may react badly.
That’s why it is important to treat black mould properly and fix the cause of the problem, not just wipe the surface.
Who Is Responsible – Tenant or Landlord?
Responsibility depends on the cause of the mould.
Landlord responsibilities:
Fixing leaks in roofs, gutters, pipes or windows
Providing adequate heating and ventilation options
Ensuring the property meets healthy homes standards
Repairing building defects that cause dampness
Tenant responsibilities:
Using extraction fans where provided
Opening windows when possible to ventilate
Using heating appropriately
Wiping minor condensation on windows and sills
In many real situations, both parties need to work together. If a property is cold, damp and poorly ventilated, there is only so much a tenant can do. Likewise, even a well-built home can grow mould if it is never aired out or heated.
A professional mould assessment can help identify what is really happening so everyone can make informed decisions.
Why DIY Mould Cleaners Often Fail
Most supermarket products and home remedies are designed to bleach mould, not eliminate it. They may make the stain look lighter for a while, but they often:
Do not penetrate deeply into porous surfaces
Leave spores behind
Spread spores into the air while you’re cleaning
Fail to address the underlying moisture problem
This is why black mould often keeps coming back in the same place. Wiping the surface without treating the cause is only a short-term cosmetic fix.
How Mould Masters Treats Black Mould in Rentals
At Mould Masters we specialise in treating black mould in Wellington homes and rental properties. Our 5-step process is designed to remove visible growth, kill airborne spores and reduce the chance of mould returning.
Free instant quote – We assess the problem and provide clear pricing upfront.
Full mould inspection – We use moisture meters, thermal imaging and experience to find the true source of the problem.
Visible mould removal – We treat affected surfaces with Goldmorr GM6000, which is designed specifically for mould remediation.
Fogging treatment – We fog the property with GM2000 to neutralise invisible spores in the air and on surfaces.
Air quality testing & management plan – Where required we can test the air and give practical advice on heating, ventilation and moisture control.
This approach is safe, fast and suitable for occupied homes, including families with children or pets.
Benefits for Landlords and Property Managers
For landlords and property managers, working with a specialist mould removal company has several advantages:
Independent assessment of the mould problem
Professional documentation and photos of the work
Faster turnaround between tenancies
Protection of paintwork, ceilings and fittings
Reduced risk of ongoing complaints about dampness or mould
Treating mould properly also helps protect your long-term investment by preventing further damage to walls, ceilings and carpets.
What Tenants Should Do If They Notice Black Mould
If you are renting in Wellington and notice black mould:
Report it to your landlord or property manager as soon as possible.
Take clear photos of the affected areas.
Note any leaks, dripping windows or musty smells.
If possible, increase ventilation and use extraction fans or dehumidifiers.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can release more spores into the air.
You can also suggest bringing in a professional mould remediation company like Mould Masters to inspect and treat the issue correctly.
What Tenants Should Do If They Notice Black Mould
If you are renting in Wellington and notice black mould:
Report it to your landlord or property manager as soon as possible.
Take clear photos of the affected areas.
Note any leaks, dripping windows or musty smells.
If possible, increase ventilation and use extraction fans or dehumidifiers.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can release more spores into the air.
You can also suggest bringing in a professional mould remediation company like Mould Masters to inspect and treat the issue correctly.
Need Black Mould Removed from a Wellington Rental?
Whether you are a tenant, landlord or property manager, dealing with black mould can be stressful. Our job is to make the solution simple. We identify the cause, treat the mould safely and give you practical steps to keep it under control.
If you’re concerned about black mould in a Wellington home or rental property, get in touch with Mould Masters today for a free instant quote and professional advice.