Measuring dampness and mould exposure
in Australian homes
We are currently recruiting participants living in homes with or without mould for a validation study
Dampness and mould in the home can cause significant health problems. Mould is hard to measure, and we're not sure exactly how many homes it hides in. This research project starting in June 2022 aims to gather data on what types of housing are more likely to have problems with dampness.
Online survey
We're asking households across Australia to complete a 15-minute survey on housing and health.
There is an option at the end to provide your contact details if you would like to opt-in to the other parts of the study—indoor mould measurement and informal interview.
Indoor mould measurement
If your home is selected for DNA-based mould measurement, a researcher will visit to take vacuum samples. At the end of the project you will receive a HERTSMI-2 report on levels of 5 different mould species found in your home.
We are particularly keen to test homes with no known mould problems. A limited number of tests are available, so not everyone who expresses interest will receive a test.
Interview
If you'd like to discuss your experiences living in a home affected by dampness and mould, there is the option to participate in an informal interview about the health effects of mould.
If you opt in to the indoor mould measurement or the interview, a researcher will contact you to discuss the study and arrange a time.
For more information, you can download the
State and territory guidance on mould in your home: