What Does the World Health Organisation Say About Living in a Mouldy Building?

Updated on
August 7, 2026

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What does the WHO say about living in a mouldy building?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) provides detailed guidance on the health effects of living in a mouldy building. The WHO has classified damp and mould as a significant public health problem and has recommended action to address the issue. The WHO guidelines state that indoor air quality should be prioritised, and that housing should be free of excessive moisture or mould. We take a look at the key points of the WHO guidelines, so that you can make an informed decision about the safety of your home.

How prevalent is mould in buildings?

According to the WHO, an estimated 10-50% of buildings in Europe, North America, Australia, India and Japan have significant dampness and mould problems. In some countries, up to 50% of residential buildings are affected. This is a significant public health problem that affects millions of people around the world. The problem is particularly acute in older and poorly maintained buildings, but can also occur in newer buildings if they are not properly designed or maintained.

Is black mould dangerous?

The WHO takes mould in buildings seriously. It states that all types of mould are potentially harmful to human health, but that the severity of the effects depends on the type and concentration of mould, as well as the health status of the person exposed. According to the WHO, the most common health effects of mould exposure are respiratory problems, such as asthma, allergies and respiratory infections. More severe health effects can occur in people with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, children and people with HIV/AIDS or cancer. The WHO has recommended that all visible mould in buildings be removed promptly and that steps be taken to prevent future mould growth.

What does the WHO recommend for dealing with mould in buildings?

The WHO recommends that buildings be inspected for mould and that any visible mould be removed promptly. The WHO also recommends that steps be taken to prevent future mould growth, such as controlling moisture levels, improving ventilation, and repairing any water leaks or damage. The WHO has also recommended that people living in mouldy buildings be provided with information about the health risks of mould and how to protect themselves.

What is Pure Maintenance's approach to mould?

Unlike a spray or a wipe, which only hits what you can reach, we treat the whole airspace of your home using dry fog technology. What this means is that our dry fog is suspended in the air. This means we treat mould on the surfaces the air touches and in the airspace itself, including the folds and recesses a cloth can't get to. Our antimicrobial coating, EverPURE, then leaves a durable antimicrobial layer that helps resist regrowth on treated surfaces.