Waterproofing, Mould, and Risk Management

The Real Cost of Waterproofing Failure

360 Mins

Wishlist

Calendar

X

Facebook

Waterproofing defects remain the primary cause of residential building complaints in Australia.

While the initial cost of waterproofing a wet area is relatively low ($300–$400), the cost of rectification frequently exceeds $15,000 to $30,000 per unit.
According to Chubb’s Insight Report, water damage now accounts for 34% of property-related insurance claims—surpassing the combined total of fire (16%) and burglary (9%).
 
The Wellness Impact: A Public Health Concern
The link between damp housing and chronic illness is a growing area of medical and legal concern. Moisture caused by rising damp or poor ventilation facilitates biological growth that directly contributes to:

• Respiratory Conditions: Mould-induced asthma and allergic fungal sinusitis.
• Inflammatory Disease: Chronic reactions to airborne spores and lung inflammation.
• Vector Issues: Increased growth of insect pests (bedbugs and cockroaches).

With the National Construction Code (NCC) moving toward higher energy efficiency and "sealed" house designs, lower air change rates mean even minor moisture ingress can lead to significant health impacts.
 
Key Areas of Litigation and Technical Failure 
Mould-related litigation is no longer a niche issue; VCAT cases have risen from 6-7 per year to over 30 by 2025. 
This conferene examines common technical failures identified in recent legal disputes, including:

• Roofing & Gutters: Eaves vs. wall-mounted gutters and box gutter overflow requirements.
• Flat Roofs: Common points of ingress, including A/C service penetrations.
• Balconies & Podiums: Drainage requirements for Class 2 buildings and planter boxes.
• Internal Wet Areas: Challenges with draining large-format tile floor finishes.

The conference will also look at  issues surrounding the impact of mould and damp including:

• Substrates: how they can influence mould growth.
• Health effects: what impact exposure to water-damaged buildings has on occupant health
• Waterproofing strategies: how they can mitigate the accumulation of water by addressing 4 principles of waterproofing design
• Humidity and moisture: how to manage moisture and humid  in buildings to break its lifecycle.

The conference features expert-led presentations and panel discussions covering essential waterproofing for roofs, gutters, balconies, podiums, and internal wet areas. Architects, engineers, and builders will gain critical insights into how dampness and mold affect occupant health and learn proactive strategies to mitigate the risk of future litigation.

Can’t make it on the day? Interstate guests or others that can't attend live can purchase a recording of the event and stream from your Mecca account and still receive your CPD points.

Wishlist

Calendar

X

Facebook