A Heritage Challenge: Strata Mould Remediation in an Ashfield Federation Apartment

Sydney's Inner West is renowned for its character-filled terrace houses and Federation homes, but these classic buildings can present unique and complex challenges when modern problems like water damage strike. Our mould inspection team was recently called to an apartment within one such heritage building in Ashfield. A hidden leak had created a significant mould issue, threatening the property and, as recognized by NSW Health, the health of the family living there. This case study details the meticulous, standards-based process required for a safe and successful remediation.

Step 1: A Collaborative Approach with Strata & Insurance

The process began with our free, no-obligation mould inspection. From day one, we worked transparently with the apartment owner, the strata manager, and their insurance provider. We provided a detailed report and then customised a scope of work that adheres strictly to the IICRC S520 Standard, the global "rulebook" for professional mould remediation. Clear communication is essential in a strata project, and we ensured everyone understood the plan to achieve a safe, guaranteed outcome.

Step 2: Protecting a Classic Home with Modern Containment

Before any work began, protecting the heritage apartment and the building's common areas was our top priority. The photo from this job showcases our advanced containment setup. We used the Zipwall® dust barrier system to create a fully sealed work zone.

Inside this zone, we established negative air pressure using a HEPA-filtered machine that vented to the outside. This critical engineering control, a cornerstone of the IICRC standards, creates an inward flow of air, making it physically impossible for any mould spores or dust to escape and cross-contaminate the rest of the building.

Step 3: The Remediation – A Blend of Power and Precision

With the containment secure, our IICRC certified technicians began the physical remediation:

1. Strip-Out: All contaminated materials, including plasterboard and insulation, were carefully removed. All waste was double-bagged in 200um plastic with a 'goose-neck' seal for safe disposal according to NSW EPA guidelines.

2. Structural Cleaning: The exposed heritage timber frame was decontaminated with a manual sanding and abrasive cleaning to physically remove all visible mould growth. This was followed by a thorough clean with specialised HEPA vacuums.

3. Chemical Treatment: Next, we applied a chemical wash using Actichem Percide, a hospital-grade disinfectant, followed by a high-pressure, low-water wash. All contaminated water was carefully captured and disposed of safely.

Step 4: Advanced Structural Drying with Thermal Targeting

Drying a heritage building effectively requires science and precision. We deployed our Drymatic thermal targeting heat drying system to apply controlled heat directly to the wet timber and brickwork, accelerating evaporation without damaging the delicate materials. We combined this with multiple commercial-grade LGR dehumidifiers to pull the moisture out of the air. Crucially, all air used by the drying system was pre-filtered through a standalone HEPA air scrubber, ensuring only pure, spore-free air was used in the drying process.

Step 5: The Final Polish: Air Washing

Even after cleaning and drying, microscopic spores can remain suspended in the air. The next stage was a 48-hour "air wash," where multiple HEPA air scrubbers were run continuously inside the containment to capture any lingering airborne particles, leaving the air hygienically clean and ready for verification.

Step 6: In-House Verification – Our Pre-Clearance Testing

Before considering a job complete, we perform our own rigorous testing to ensure it will meet the strict criteria of an independent hygienist. This step gives everyone confidence and helps prevent the cost of a failed clearance test. We use industry-standard methodologies, including:

• Air Sampling with Air-O-Cell® cassettes to ensure airborne spore counts have returned to normal, healthy levels (Condition 1).

• Surface Sampling using tape lifts to verify under a microscope that all mould has been physically removed.

  
  

A Proven Process for a Guaranteed Mould Removal Result

This Ashfield project highlights why a multi-stage process, aligned with the scientific principles outlined by global bodies like the IICRC, is essential for complex mould issues. From the initial collaboration with strata to our final in-house clearance testing, every step was designed to ensure a safe, permanent solution. With our work verified, the home was ready for the independent hygienist to conduct the final Post-Remediation Verification (PRV), providing the ultimate peace of mind.

Photos from this mould removal job in Ashfield

image shows inside the mould removal containment looking directly at the zipwall exit

a section of the water damage wall causing mould that will be remove for disposal

If you are a strata manager, homeowner, or real estate agent in the Inner West dealing with a mould or water damage issue, contact our specialist team today to learn how we can help you navigate the process.

About the Author

Michael Nguyen is the founder of AAA Mould Removal and a leading expert in mould remediation and building science. His mission is to help Sydney residents maintain healthy indoor environments through scientifically-backed, professional remediation services.

With a unique combination of hands-on and academic expertise, Michael's qualifications are extensive:

• IICRC Certified: Water Damage Restoration, Applied Microbial Remediation & Applied Structural Drying.

• Microbiology: Completed specialised study in Microbiology at RMIT University.

• Licensed Builder & Carpenter with a Diploma in Building & Construction.

• Current University Studies: Double Bachelor’s degree in Medical Science and Environmental Science at Macquarie University.

This deep understanding of building structures, environmental science, and microbiology allows Michael to diagnose the root cause of mould problems, not just treat the symptoms. He specialises in residential and commercial mould removal, black mould treatment, and water damage restoration.

Need a true expert to assess your property? Contact AAA Mould Removal today for a free comprehensive mould inspection.