Is That Mould? Signs You Need a Professional Inspection

Mould can be a silent and dangerous intruder in your home. Often developing in hidden spaces, it quietly spreads through drywall, beneath flooring, and into ventilation systems before showing visible signs. Many homeowners in Ontario unknowingly live with mould growth until it begins to affect their health or cause visible damage. At Preferred Restoration Contractors, we frequently respond to calls where mould has been growing undetected for weeks or even months, often triggered by past water damage or consistent moisture problems.
Recognizing the early signs of mould can help you avoid costly remediation and health complications. One of the most common indicators is a persistent musty or earthy odor that lingers, especially in basements, bathrooms, or laundry rooms. Even if you can’t see it, mould often produces an unmistakable smell as it breaks down organic material like wood or drywall. Another early sign is frequent allergy-like symptoms that worsen indoors—this includes sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, or nasal congestion that seems to improve when you leave the property.
Physical signs on your walls or ceilings may include dark spots, discoloration, peeling paint, or warping surfaces. In basements, you might notice white or black patches on concrete walls or around baseboards. If there’s been a recent flood or leak, these signs could emerge within days, particularly if the water wasn’t dried quickly or thoroughly.
What many homeowners don’t realize is that trying to clean mould with household cleaners often makes the situation worse. Scrubbing affected areas can release spores into the air, spreading them into other rooms. Without proper containment, ventilation, and treatment, the root cause of the mould remains and continues to spread beneath the surface.
A professional mould inspection goes far beyond what’s visible. At Preferred Restoration Contractors, we use moisture detection tools and thermal imaging to locate hidden sources of dampness. Our IICRC-certified team evaluates the full extent of contamination and determines the species of mould involved. From there, we design a safe and effective remediation plan, which includes containment barriers, HEPA filtration systems, and targeted removal of contaminated materials.
Equally important is identifying the source of the moisture that caused the mould in the first place. Whether it’s poor ventilation, a slow plumbing leak, foundation cracks, or rising humidity levels, we offer long-term solutions such as waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and improved drainage systems to ensure the problem doesn’t return.
Some homeowners delay inspections because they fear the cost or complexity of mould remediation. However, waiting can lead to increased damage, higher restoration expenses, and a greater risk to your health. For families with young children, elderly relatives, or anyone with asthma or compromised immunity, mould exposure can cause severe reactions. Don’t let uncertainty or hesitation keep you from a safer, healthier home.
If you suspect mould in your home—or simply want peace of mind—contact Preferred Restoration Contractors for a comprehensive inspection. Our team is available year-round and provides detailed reports, customized remediation plans, and professional follow-through. We don’t just treat the problem—we eliminate it at the source.