The research proposes to include insights from analysis of applications to DBDRV for dispute resolution. This research builds upon a previous study commissioned by the VBA into the nature and extent of moisture damage in houses and apartments in Victoria (scoping study). The study will be led by Dr Tim Law, an architectural scientist from RIC who specialises in indoor mould in Australian buildings.
The research aims to:
- Quantify the nature and extent of moisture ingress and indoor mould in Victorian residential buildings based on applications to DBDRV for dispute resolution.
- Identify the causes and underlying factors contributing to the moisture ingress and indoor mould, and whether these are consistent with the findings of the scoping study.
- Identify potential practitioner competency gaps, and opportunities to strengthen consumer protection through targeted regulatory interventions or reform to reduce the cause of moisture ingress and indoor mould.
This project is due for completion in 2024-25 and will provide the VBA with insights on how to better target regulatory interventions through educational webinars, technical guidance, the VBA’s Proactive Inspection Program (PIP) and regulatory reform.
The VBA prioritises its resources and regulatory effort on those areas which pose the greatest risks of harm to consumer outcomes, as part of its commitment to being a Trusted Regulator.
To find out more about this research project and others, visit the VBA Research web page.
