VBA supports further research on mold damage – Regulatory & Government – Insurance News

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has supported a research project from the University of Sydney on moisture resilience as it continues to tackle the issue of water ingress and mold damage.

The VBA says the study aims to “develop guidance for the design, construction and maintenance of building envelopes” to improve interior moisture protection against water ingress and mold risk.

University of Sydney Associate Professor of Architecture Arianna Brambilla, who will lead the project, said the review would look at examples from “typical building envelopes built in Victoria” to identify preventable causes of damage. .

“Water damage can be exacerbated by poor design, poor construction practices and poor maintenance practices, resulting in a lack of awareness and knowledge by some practitioners,” said Dr Brambilla.

“This research aims to find ways to increase moisture resistance in the built environment so that future building design can combat this common problem.”

VBA State Building Surveyor Andrew Cialini said the study would be supported by the regulator’s research grant program and help inform its decision-making on regulations to improve Victoria’s building quality.

“Condensation and mold in buildings are associated with negative impacts on human health and amenity, as well as building structural integrity,” Mr Cialini said.

“As water damage regularly tops the list of defects experienced in buildings and in complaints to the VBA, as well as other agencies, it is important that we find solutions to reduce it.”

The VBA recently supported findings from a study by Victoria University and the Victorian Managed Insurance Agency (VMIA) which identified a lack of industry understanding of roofing and waterproofing requirements as the main reason behind the breakdown of water in buildings.