Moisture Assessments

At Aerem, we specialise in independent moisture assessments designed to identify leaks, hidden dampness, and water ingress before they cause costly damage or health risks. Our experienced team provides clear, accurate reporting to support homeowners, property managers, and builders in maintaining safe, dry, and compliant buildings.

Why Choose a Moisture Assessment?

Unnoticed moisture can severely damage building materials, promote mould growth, and compromise structural integrity. Our moisture testing services give you peace of mind, clarity, and the opportunity for early intervention.

Benefits include:

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Contact Aerem today to discuss your project.

Common Signs of Moisture Problems

Many moisture issues go unnoticed until significant damage occurs. Watch for:

Musty odours or persistent damp smells
Staining, bubbling, or discolouration on walls or ceilings
Condensation on windows or walls
Warped flooring or skirting boards
Mould growth in corners or behind furniture

If you notice these signs, a professional moisture inspection is highly recommended.

Building Material Moisture Content Standards in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the NZ Building Code (NZBC) sets specific moisture content requirements for building materials to ensure durability and health standards are met. Proper moisture levels prevent mould, timber decay, and structural damage.

Typical moisture content thresholds for various materials:

Timber

Freshly cut: 30-60% moisture content (MC)
In service (dry conditions): below 20% MC (ideally around 12-15%) for most internal timber, to prevent rot and decay.

Drywall and plasterboard

In New Zealand, an acceptable moisture level in drywall is generally considered to be between 5% and 12%. Readings up to 17% are still considered acceptable, but readings above that may indicate a problem that needs to be addressed.

Concrete and masonry

Moisture content should generally be below 5-8%, depending on the application and drying stage.

Why these levels matter: Maintaining moisture content within recommended ranges helps prevent mould growth, timber rot, and structural issues. Our assessments measure these levels to ensure your building remains within safe and compliant parameters.

Transparent Pricing & Tailored Solutions

All assessments are customised based on your specific needs. We’ll provide a clear quote before beginning any work, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.

Basic Targeted Moisture Assessment

$350+ GST

Detailed Moisture Mapping Assessment

Price on scope of works

Our Process

1. Initial Consultation

We discuss your concerns and review the property’s history of leaks, flooding, or ventilation issues.

2. Visual Inspection

Our assessors examine common risk zones—kitchens, bathrooms, subfloors, ceilings, window frames, and basements—for visible signs of water damage or entry points.

3. Moisture Meter Testing

Using industry-standard moisture meters, we test walls, floors, and ceilings to identify high moisture levels beneath the surface.

4. Thermal Imaging (if required)

Thermal imaging may be employed to trace hidden leaks or cold spots that lead to condensation and moisture build-up.

5. Reporting & Recommendations

You receive a clear, detailed report outlining findings and suggested next steps, including repairs, drying, or further investigations.

FAQs

What is a moisture assessment?

A moisture assessment detects dampness or water ingress within a building. It combines visual checks with specialised tools to uncover issues that aren’t immediately visible.

Who needs a moisture assessment?

Homeowners concerned about leaks or dampness
Landlords ensuring compliance with Healthy Homes Standards
Property buyers during pre-purchase inspections
Builders, developers, and insurance assessors

Which areas do you service?

We operate across Auckland, Waikato, and Northland. Additional travel charges may apply for locations over 20 km from our base.

What tools do you use?

Our team employs digital moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras (when necessary), and expert visual assessment to detect early signs of moisture ingress.

What happens if moisture is detected?

Our report includes clear guidance on next steps, which may involve leak detection and repairs, ventilation improvements, dehumidification, or further investigation.

Can moisture assessments identify mould?

While primarily focused on moisture detection, our assessments can highlight conditions conducive to mould growth. We also offer comprehensive mould testing and indoor air quality assessments if mould is suspected.

Building Code Compliance in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the NZ Building Code (NZBC) requires that buildings are constructed and maintained to prevent excessive moisture ingress, condensation, and mould growth. Standards specify maximum moisture levels for different materials and outline best practices for moisture control through design, construction, and ongoing maintenance. Our assessments help ensure your property remains compliant, durable, and healthy by identifying potential issues early and supporting ongoing moisture management.

Book your moisture assessment today

Protect your property from avoidable damage. Contact us now to schedule your assessment and keep your building dry, safe, and compliant.