Common signs of mould include:

• Musty or damp odours

• Dark spots or discoloration on walls or ceilings

• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall

• Recent water damage or leaks

• Increased allergy symptoms indoors

Mould often grows in hidden areas such as behind drywall, under flooring, in attics, or inside basements.

Some moulds can cause irritation or worsen respiratory conditions, especially for people with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems.

While not all mould is harmful, visible mould growth in a home should always be properly addressed and remediated to prevent it from spreading.

Mould can begin to develop within 24–48 hours after water damage occurs if moisture is not properly dried.

This is why it’s important to address leaks, flooding, or high humidity as quickly as possible.

Small surface mould (such as on bathroom tile) can sometimes be cleaned with household products.

However, larger mould problems or mould behind walls should be handled by professionals, because disturbing the mould can release large numbers of spores into the air and spread contamination to other areas of the home.

Mould growth is usually caused by excess moisture.

Common causes include:

• Plumbing leaks

• Roof leaks

• Basement moisture or flooding

• Poor ventilation in bathrooms or attics

• High indoor humidity

• Previous water damage that was not properly dried

Addressing the moisture source is an important part of preventing mould from returning.

The timeline depends on the size of the affected area.

Many smaller remediation projects can be completed in one to three days, while larger projects involving structural materials may take longer.

Your technician will explain the expected timeline once the scope of work has been assessed.

In some situations, third-party mould testing may be recommended to determine the type and level of contamination or to verify that remediation was successful.

Testing is often arranged through an independent environmental professional.

Mould remediation removes existing contamination, but mould can return if the underlying moisture problem is not corrected.

Fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and controlling humidity are important steps in preventing future mould growth.

The cost of mould remediation depends on the size of the affected area, the materials involved, and the cause of the moisture problem.

Smaller projects may cost a few thousand dollars, while larger remediation projects involving structural materials can be more extensive.

We provide assessments to determine the appropriate remediation approach for each situation.

In many cases, homeowners do not need to leave the property during mould remediation.

Professional containment barriers and HEPA air filtration systems are used to isolate the affected area and prevent mould spores from spreading to other parts of the home.

However, temporary relocation may be recommended in certain situations, such as:

• Large-scale mold remediation projects

• When multiple rooms or floors are affected

• If occupants have severe allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems

• If the work area is in a central living space

Your technician will explain the remediation plan and help determine whether it is best for occupants to remain in the home or temporarily relocate during the process.

Emdecon works carefully to ensure the remediation process is safe, contained, and minimally disruptive whenever possible.