Mould on plaster boards

Hi I've spotted mould on the plaster boards as the renovation is taking longer than expected. Will it's cause an issue later on an how should I deal with it? New plaster boards? My builder said it's nothing an just gave it a wipe down. Buy I'm spending soo much on renovating I don't really want anyone issues later on with mould growth. Thank you

Asked by Lubina on 10th Mar 2025
Expert Trade Answers
"Hi if its new plasterboard board has a mould than that's not good can be problems whit instulation and maybe not have air gap for wall it's always bee a mould iif don't have air gap and or insulation thanks"
Answered on 10th Mar 2025 - Member since Nov 2023 - report
"100% change the boards, once mould grown on boards the strength and integrity of boards compromised.
They cannot be used."
Answered on 10th Mar 2025 - Member since Feb 2025 - report
"Yes, the mould will just wipe off. However, if the structural integrity of the plasterboard has been affected. I.e. it looks like wet weetabix, that is more of a problem. Your contractors should be offering some kind of guarantee or warranty. If there are any problems going to arise, they will show in the first 12 months. Difficulty is getting them back if there is a problem. Maybe suggest a small retention, but it’s not likely to cover the cost of ripping out and replacing. Best to confirm your concerns in writing and agree a guarantee/ warranty that you can use in small claims court in future. Plus take lots of photos"
Answered on 10th Mar 2025 - Member since May 2024 - report
"Hello, mould growth is often happening in houses in uk due to moisture. Like your builder said you should wipe it"
Answered on 1st Apr 2025 - Member since Mar 2025 - report
"There should not be mould on the boards period, there is no excuse for it. The builder may have wiped it off but that is no guarantee that it hasn't been contaminated by mould spours. It is possible that you could get away with it but in reality by the book is should be replaced. I would question why the builder let this occur in the first instant is probably the question that should be asked."
Answered on 10th Mar 2025 - Member since May 2024 - report
"Most likely this is caused by the plasterboard absorbing moisture from the air, or condensation. if the plasterboard is being properly plastered it won't be a problem. I'm assuming the area isn't heated currently, as if is then there may be cause for concern."
Answered on 26th Mar 2025 - Member since Jun 2024 - report
"Mould on Plasterboard – What You Should Know:
Is it a problem?
Yes, mould on plasterboard can become a long-term issue. Even if wiped down, spores may remain within the board and reappear under the right (damp) conditions. Left untreated, mould can affect indoor air quality, health, and cause staining or odour.

What do the experts say?

NHS and Public Health England recommend removing materials that show signs of mould contamination when the source of damp hasn't been fully resolved.
British Gypsum and RICS guidance also supports replacement of contaminated boards over surface treatment alone for peace of mind and durability.
What should be done?

If the mould is superficial, and you are confident the source of moisture has been resolved and the area is now dry, treating with an anti-fungal wash (e.g. Zinsser Mould Killer or Dryzone Mould Eliminator) may be acceptable — but only in non-critical areas.
If the mould penetrated or the board was damp for an extended period, the safest option is to replace the affected boards.
After replacement or treatment, prime with a stain-blocking anti-mould primer before painting (e.g. Zinsser B-I-N or Zinsser Perma-White).
Your builder’s response
“Just wiping it down” isn’t an adequate long-term solution unless the mould was minimal and the area now has proper airflow and is bone dry. Even then, it should be treated with a specialist anti-mould solution — not just a cloth."
Answered on 2nd Apr 2025 - Member since Jan 2023 - report
"I would recommend checking the area around as u can replace the board but you have to make sure to locate the cause of it before changing it."
Answered on 11th Mar 2025 - Member since Mar 2025 - report
"If there is any moisture on board it's weakening structure and makes screws to not hold the board and it's couse dump."
Answered on 13th Mar 2025 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"If mould is on the surface, clean it with a mould-killing solution and ensure the area is dry. If it’s deep or keeps returning, replace the plasterboard. Check for moisture issues, improve ventilation, and consider a mould-resistant primer. Fixing it properly now prevents costly problems later. If unsure, get a second opinion."
Answered on 21st Mar 2025 - Member since Jan 2024 - report
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