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The latest ANSI/IICRC S520 standard introduces several important updates that professionals in New Zealand should be aware of…

Published by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited body, it represents a consensus-based guide for professionals operating in the cleaning and restoration industry.

The S520-2024 supersedes the 2015 edition and is not a legally binding regulation in New Zealand, but it serves as the definitive “standard of care” for a rigorous, scientific approach to mould remediation.

The standard is intended for use by a broad range of stakeholders, including professional remediators, indoor environmental professionals (IEPs), property owners, managers, and insurance representatives.

The document’s purpose is to provide a comprehensive roadmap for addressing mould issues in residential, commercial, and institutional buildings, as well as their associated mechanical systems and contents.
It provides the technical basis for proper remediation, outlining procedures for everything from pre-remediation assessment and containment to final post-remediation verification. By following these guidelines, professionals ensure that mould contamination is not just superficially cleaned but is physically removed, the source of moisture is addressed, and the property is returned to a healthful condition.

Key Updates in the 2024 Edition

The latest edition of the S520 standard represents a significant evolution in the science of mould remediation. The updates are a direct result of new scientific research and regulatory considerations.

  • Refined Definitions: The new edition includes clearer definitions and updated terminology to improve consistency and understanding across the industry.
  • Emphasis on Source Removal: The standard now places a greater focus on physically removing mould and contaminated materials from the affected area, as opposed to relying solely on sprays or biocides.
  • Revised Biocide Guidelines: The use of biocides and antimicrobial agents is now more carefully defined, with specific guidance on their application and limitations.
  • Mycotoxin Protocols: The document includes new content on mycotoxins, which are toxic compounds produced by some types of mould, providing procedures for their handling.
  • Communication and Documentation: The standard enhances the requirements for communication with all parties and stresses the importance of thorough documentation throughout the remediation process.
  • Post-Remediation Evaluation: New, specific procedures for post-remediation evaluation and verification are included to ensure that the job has been completed effectively and the affected environment has been restored.

The IICRC Ecosystem: A Suite of Interconnected Standards

The S520 standard does not exist in isolation; it is part of a broader ecosystem of professional standards that address various aspects of cleaning and restoration. Understanding the relationship between these documents is crucial for both professionals and consumers.

Why This Standard Matters for New Zealand Professionals

Following the ANSI/IICRC S520-2024 standard provides a clear framework for professional conduct and quality assurance. For New Zealand companies, adhering to this internationally recognised guide helps to:

  • Enhance Credibility: It demonstrates a commitment to professional best practices, which is crucial for building trust with clients and insurance companies.
  • Ensure Health and Safety: It provides a structured approach that prioritises the health and safety of both workers and building occupants.
  • Reduce Liability: Proper documentation and adherence to a recognised standard can help protect your business in legal or insurance-related disputes.
The Mould Challenge in Aotearoa: A Local Perspective

The Causal Relationship: Climate, Building, and Mycology

Mould is a prevalent and systemic issue in New Zealand, and its root causes are deeply intertwined with the country’s unique climate and traditional building practices. The nation’s “damp and humid climate” and “high rainfall” provide the ideal environmental conditions for mould to flourish.

Mould, a type of fungus, requires a food source and, most critically, moisture to grow. These conditions are common across both the North and South Islands. In the built environment, mould readily colonises organic materials, including timber, plasterboard, and drywall, which are common construction materials used in New Zealand homes. When these materials become damp from leaks, condensation, or high humidity, they provide a fertile breeding ground for mould spores to germinate and spread.  

This confluence of environmental and structural factors creates a cycle of persistent mould growth. Simple, superficial cleaning measures are often insufficient because they do not address the underlying moisture problem or the deep-seated fungal growth.
The vulnerability of many New Zealand homes, exacerbated by factors like poor ventilation and inadequate insulation, means that mould is not merely a cosmetic issue but a direct symptom of a compromised building envelope. This fundamental understanding establishes why a robust, professional approach to remediation, one that addresses the source of the problem, is not just preferable but necessary.
Health Implications: A Public Health and WorkSafe NZ View
The presence of mould in indoor environments extends beyond a structural issue to become a significant public health and occupational safety concern. Exposure to mould and its spores can trigger a wide range of health problems, from mild allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes, to more severe respiratory issues and the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis. The health impact varies greatly from person to person, but certain groups are particularly vulnerable. Infants and children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions are at a heightened risk of developing severe symptoms even at low levels of exposure.
Certain mould species, such as the infamous Stachybotrys chartarum, or “toxic black mould,” are particularly hazardous. These species can produce mycotoxins, which can lead to neurological issues, chronic respiratory problems, and other serious health complications. The Christchurch City Council and other public health bodies explicitly advise that if toxic black mould is suspected, a “specialist contractor” must be employed to carry out the identification and removal process, highlighting the danger and the need for expert intervention.

The national health context, where respiratory illnesses account for a significant portion of work-related deaths, further underscores the importance of a safe and healthy indoor environment. WorkSafe New Zealand’s guidance on mould exposure highlights that the best way to reduce risk is to “eliminate the source of exposure and control water leakage and moisture”.
This perspective transforms mould management from a simple cleaning task into a professional, health-focused discipline that requires specialised knowledge and equipment.
Professional Competence and Certification in New Zealand
The IICRC Certification Pathway

In New Zealand, IICRC certification is the primary means by which professionals in the cleaning and restoration industry demonstrate their knowledge and competence. The certification process involves attending an IICRC-approved course, passing a rigorous written examination, and documenting practical skills.
For mould remediation, the core certifications are the Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and the Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT). The AMRT course, which covers mould and sewage remediation techniques, is a prerequisite for professional mould work and must be taken after the WRT course.

Cleaning Systems – Ascend Training offer these courses, either in-class or via live stream, making the certification pathway accessible to all remediation professionals. The IICRC also mandates continuing education to ensure certified professionals remain updated with the latest industry developments. This ongoing commitment to learning and professional development separates a truly competent specialist from an unqualified operator.

Companies that invest in IICRC training can assure clients and insurance providers that they adhere to a globally recognised standard of care, ensuring a methodical, effective, and safe remediation process. For a consumer, hiring an IICRC-certified firm is the most reliable way to vet a professional and ensure the work is performed correctly, protecting both their health and their property.

IICRC Training Courses

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Want more information about IICRC Education? Watch the IICRC; Standards and Education Video Guide