Noticed Something Musty at Home? It Might Be Time to Call in a Mould Inspector
In Aotearoa, damp homes aren’t just a winter hassle—they’re a year-round reality for many of us. Whether you’re in a rental, an older home, or just dealing with a shady, cold corner of the house, mould has a sneaky way of creeping in.
So, when is it worth calling in a pro? What exactly does a mould inspector do? And how do you know if you’re dealing with surface gunk or something more serious?
Let’s break it down.
Why Mould’s a Big Deal in NZ
Thanks to our cooler, wetter climate and a lot of older housing stock, mould is surprisingly common across the motu. But it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it can impact:
- Your health (think asthma, allergies, breathing issues)
- Your property (hello, stained walls and soft gib)
- Your wallet (repairs get pricey if left too long)
Signs You Might Need a Mould Inspection
Not sure if it’s time to bring in the experts? Keep an eye out for:
- Persistent musty smell that won’t go away with a clean
- Visible mould on ceilings, corners, behind furniture
- Condensation on windows or damp patches on walls
- Health symptoms that improve when you’re away from home
- Recent leaks or flooding (even if it seems dry now)
If you’re ticking more than one of these boxes, it’s probably worth getting it checked.
What Does a Mould Inspector Actually Do?
It’s more than just pointing at a patch and saying “yep, that’s mould.”
A qualified inspector will:
- Assess the source of moisture (not just the symptoms)
- Use thermal imaging or moisture meters to spot hidden problems
- Identify the mould type (some are nastier than others)
- Give you a clear report with next steps—whether that’s a deep clean, professional remediation, or sorting your insulation and ventilation
Some also offer air quality testing, especially if health concerns are a factor.
Can’t I Just Clean It Myself?
You can… sometimes.
For small surface spots (like bathroom tiles or windowsills), a good scrub with white vinegar can do the trick. But if the mould keeps coming back, is in multiple rooms, or is growing on walls or ceilings, DIY won’t cut it.
That’s when an inspection can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.
How Much Does a Mould Inspection Cost in NZ?
It varies depending on your location and the size of your home, but you’re generally looking at:
- Basic inspection: $150–$300
- Full report + air quality testing: $300–$600+
- Remediation (if needed): quoted separately, based on severity
Tip: If you’re renting, and mould is affecting your health or belongings, chat to your landlord or property manager. They may be responsible for covering the cost.
Choosing a Mould Inspector: What to Look For
Here’s what makes a good one:
- Independent and unbiased — not just someone trying to sell you a clean-up service
- Qualified and experienced
- Clear reporting with practical advice (not just scare tactics)
- Positive local reviews — especially for honesty and helpfulness
1. Restate Property Restoration
Website: restorationspecialists.co.nz
Location: 32E Poland Road, Wairau Valley
Contact: +64 800 332 664
Hours: Open 24/7
Why they rock:
- Price Beat Guarantee—get the best deal, no sweat.
- Free quotes & no-obligation consultations.
- Cutting-edge thermal imaging tech to sniff out hidden moisture.
- Focus on improving indoor air quality by blasting airborne mold spores.
Heads-up: Some clients had trouble booking consultations, but overall solid service.
Client shoutout:
“Lennart was friendly, professional, and finished early with clear communication. Great mold removal!” – Tamara Whillans
2. Centric Cleaning & Remediation
Website: c-clean.co.nz
Contact: +64 21 610 070
Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:30 AM – 6 PM; Fri 8:30 AM – 3 PM; Sat 8:30 AM – 12 PM; Sun Closed
Why they stand out:
- Full-service mold solutions—from testing to removal.
- Certified experts with ongoing training.
- Eco-friendly products to keep your health front and centre.
- They teach you how to prevent mold from coming back!
Heads-up: Occasionally, inspectors arrive late but make up for it with thorough work.
Client shoutout:
“Absolutely awesome job on two homes. Highly recommended!” – Christine Taylor
3. New Zealand Restoration Services (NZRS)
Website: nzrsnational.co.nz
Location: 24/3 Tironui Road, Takanini
Contact: +64 800 744 272
Hours: Open 24/7
Why they’re worth it:
- Friendly, knowledgeable team always up-to-date with training.
- Wide range of services beyond mold—like asbestos surveying and flood/fire restoration.
- Use advanced gear for thorough mold removal and air quality boost.
Heads-up: Pricing is a bit higher, but you get top-tier service.
Client shoutout:
“Great communication and professional service for asbestos removal.” – Ian Jones
4. First Choice House Inspections
Website: firstchoicehouseinspections.co.nz
Location: 1/145 Gills Road, Half Moon Bay
Contact: +64 27 321 2253
Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM daily
Why you want them:
- More than mold checks—full house inspections including weather tightness.
- Detailed, easy-to-understand reports with real future insights.
- Experts in spotting water entry points, crucial for Auckland homes.
Heads-up: Some missed appointments reported; communication can be patchy.
Client shoutout:
“Detailed reports, simple explanations, and great customer service.” – Jignesh Patel
5. RestorePro
Website: restorepro.co.nz
Contact: +64 800 743 776
Hours: Open 24/7
Why they shine:
- 24/7 emergency response—help when you need it most.
- Certified by IICRC, so they really know mold inside out.
- Detailed inspection reports covering mold types and affected areas.
- Smart containment and dehumidifying to stop mold in its tracks.
- They handle repairs after mold removal, keeping it all in one place.
Heads-up: A few clients mentioned unclear extra costs or overcharging on some services.
Client shoutout:
“Very responsible team, responsive and quality work.” – Simon Chong
Conclusion
Choosing the right property restoration or mold removal service can make all the difference in protecting your home and health. Whether you need advanced tech, eco-friendly methods, or 24/7 emergency support, these trusted New Zealand companies deliver expert care and proven results. With options like Restate Property Restoration’s price beat guarantee, Centric Cleaning’s eco-conscious approach, or RestorePro’s round-the-clock availability, you’re set to tackle any mold or damage challenge with confidence. Looking for more local experts? Check out Find New Zealand to discover even more trusted service providers ready to help you protect your home.
