FAQs
More FAQs- What is black mould?
- Do I need to move out of my home during the restoration process?
- What is that smell?
Black mould (Statchybotrys chartarum) is greenish-black in colour and grows in conditions where there is an excessive amount of moisture over a long period of time. Water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks and condensation in small, damp places like bathrooms all create a perfect breeding ground for black mould. Black mould releases microtoxins, a noxious substance that can cause serious health problems for humans and pets.
Depending on the extent of damage, your insurance representative can help you answer this question. Ultimately, however, this is a decision you must reach on your own. Some things you may want to consider are safety concerns, odours, electricity, and disruption as a result of the equipment, work and noise that may be necessary to complete the restoration process in your home. If vacating your premises during the process, consider forwarding your mail to your temporary residence; stopping your newspaper and other deliveries; notifying your utility company, cable company, etc., of the temporary suspension of services during the restoration process.
Usually, if it smells like mould, it is mould. Mould or mildew odours are due to the presence of fungi in the air, inside pipes or walls, or hidden in other parts of your commercial property. Mould is thicker than mildew, so if the smell is particularly strong, that’s a clue that it’s mould and you need to act fast to prevent further growth.