Black Mould on Walls and Ceiling: What to Do?

Waterproofing Leak Expert
Wei Jie
14 Feb 2026
10 min read

Black mould on walls and ceiling is a common problem in Singapore, where high humidity and frequent rainfall create the perfect environment for fungal growth. While many homeowners try to clean it off, mould is often a symptom of a deeper waterproofing issue.

Black mould on bedroom wall ceiling Singapore

As a professional waterproofing company in Singapore, we’ve treated hundreds of cases where recurring mould was caused by hidden leaks, failed sealants, or wall seepage. Here’s what you need to know — and what to do next.

What Causes Black Mould on Walls?

Black mould forms when moisture accumulates on wall surfaces for extended periods. In Singapore homes — including old HDB flats, Condos and Landed Homes.

1. High Indoor Humidity

Singapore’s average humidity often exceeds 70%, making condensation a daily occurrence, especially in air-conditioned rooms.

2. Waterproofing Failure

Cracked external walls, deteriorated sealants, and failed bathroom membranes allow water to seep into walls.

3. Roof or Ceiling Leaks

Water penetration from roof slabs or upper-floor bathrooms can lead to mould growth on ceilings and upper walls.

4. Poor Ventilation

Closed windows and limited airflow trap moisture indoors.

Is Mould Dangerous?

Some black mould species, including Stachybotrys chartarum, are associated with health concerns. While not all black mould is toxic, exposure may cause:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Persistent coughing or sneezing
  • Asthma flare-ups
  • Skin irritation
  • Headaches

Children, elderly residents, and individuals with respiratory issues are particularly vulnerable.

What To Do If You See Black Mould on Walls

Step 1: Assess the Size of the Area

If the mould patch is:

  • Smaller than 1 square metre
  • Surface-level only
  • Not recurring

You may attempt DIY cleaning.

If it keeps returning or is spreading, professional assessment is recommended.

Step 2: Clean Small Affected Areas Safely

For minor cases:

  • Wear gloves and a mask
  • Ensure ventilation
  • Use white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
  • Avoid mixing cleaning chemicals
  • Dry the wall completely after cleaning

⚠️ Important: Cleaning removes surface mould but does NOT solve internal moisture problems.

Step 3: Check for Underlying Waterproofing Issues

Recurring mould usually indicates:

  • External wall cracks
  • Hairline façade fractures
  • Failed bathroom waterproofing
  • Roof slab seepage
  • Water ponding on balconies

In Singapore’s climate, mould is often a symptom — not the root cause.

Professional Mould & Waterproofing Solutions

As a professional waterproofing contractor in Singapore, our process includes:

1. Moisture Detection & Site Inspection

We identify hidden seepage using professional assessment methods.

2. Root Cause Diagnosis

We determine whether the issue is:

  • Structural crack
  • Waterproofing membrane failure
  • Sealant breakdown
  • Plumbing leakage

3. Targeted Waterproofing Repair

Solutions may include:

  • Crack injection
  • Re-application of waterproof membranes
  • External wall waterproof coating
  • Sealant replacement

4. Anti-Fungal Treatment

After fixing the moisture source, we treat the affected area to prevent recurrence.

Why Mould Keeps Coming Back

Many homeowners:

  • Paint over mould
  • Use anti-mould sprays
  • Clean repeatedly

But without resolving water ingress, mould will return. In Singapore, waterproofing failure is one of the most overlooked causes of persistent indoor mould.

When to Call a Professional Waterproofing Company in Singapore

You should seek expert help if:

  • Mould spreads across multiple walls
  • Paint is bubbling or peeling
  • Walls feel damp to touch
  • Water stains appear after rainfall
  • Mould returns within weeks of cleaning

Early intervention prevents structural damage and costly repairs.

Address the root cause, not just the surface.

If you’re experiencing recurring black mould on walls, Contact Triton Construction for a proper assessment. We are Singapore's trusted waterproofing specialist, providing only lasting solutions.

Contact us now

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Let us answer your questions about mould and waterproofing.
Why does black mould grow on walls in Singapore?

Black mould grows due to high humidity, condensation, water seepage, and poor ventilation. In Singapore’s tropical climate, moisture easily builds up indoors, especially in air-conditioned rooms, bathrooms, and external walls exposed to rain.

Is black mould dangerous to health?

Some black mould species may trigger allergies, asthma symptoms, coughing, skin irritation, and headaches. Children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions are more vulnerable. It’s best to address mould problems early.

Can I remove black mould myself?

If the affected area is small (less than 1 square metre), you can try cleaning it with white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide while wearing protective gear. However, if the mould keeps returning, it likely indicates an underlying waterproofing issue that requires professional inspection.

When should I call a professional waterproofing company?

You should seek professional help if:
1. Mould spreads across multiple areas
2. Walls feel damp
3. Paint is bubbling or peeling
4. Water stains appear after rainfall
5. Mould returns within weeks

A waterproofing contractor can identify and fix the root cause permanently.

Contact us now
Waterproofing Leak Expert
Wei Jie
Triton Construction - Your Waterproofing Specialist