Mold FAQ
Below are some answers to questions and concerns regarding mold through resources we believe to be reliable and knowledgeable.
DISCLAIMER: This web site is designed only to provide general information and is not directed toward providing legal or medical advice of any kind For proper legal advice contact an attorney. For proper medical advice contact a physician.
What is mold and where is it found?
A: Mold (fungi) is present everywhere - indoors and outdoors. There are more than 100,000 species of mold. At least 1,000 species of mold are common in the U.S. Some of the most commonly found are species of Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus. Mold is most likely to grow where there is water or dampness - such as in bathrooms and basements.
How can mold affect your health?
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A: Most types of mold that are routinely encountered are not hazardous to healthy individuals. However, too much exposure to mold may cause or worsen conditions such as asthma, hay fever, or other allergies. The most common symptoms of overexposure are cough, congestion, runny nose, eye irritation, and aggravation of asthma. Depending on the amount of exposure and a person's individual vulnerability, more serious health effects - such as fevers and breathing problems - can occur but are unusual.
How can you be exposed to mold?
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A: Most types of mold that are routinely encountered are not hazardous to healthy individuals. However, too much exposure to mold may cause or worsen conditions such as asthma, hay fever, or other allergies. The most common symptoms of overexposure are cough, congestion, runny nose, eye irritation, and aggravation of asthma. Depending on the amount of exposure and a person's individual vulnerability, more serious health effects - such as fevers and breathing problems - can occur but are unusual.
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How long does it take mold to grow after a water damage?
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A: If a water damage is not properly dried out, mold can begin to grow after just 24 hours.
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What is Stachybotrys chartarum?
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A: Stachybotrys charta rum (also known as Stachybotrys atra) is a type of mold that has been associated with health effects in people. It is a greenish-black mold that can grow on materials with a high cellulose content ¬such as drywall sheetrock, dropped ceiling tiles, and wood - that become chronically moist or water-damaged, due to excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, or flooding.
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How can I tell if I have mold spores in my home or office?
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A: If you see mold growth, water stains, dripping faucets, it is a good idea to have a Certified Mold Inspector test that surface and the indoor air for an accurate representation of mold spores. Where there is no visible mold growth, but there is a musty or moldy odor, again, have the air inspected. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
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Q: How can you tell if Stachybotrys chartarum is present in your home?
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A: Many molds are black in appearance but are not Stachybotrys. For example, the black mold commonly found between bathroom tiles is not Stachybotrys. Stachybotrys can be positively identified only by specially trained professionals (e.g., mycologists) through a microscopic exam.
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Q: How can Stachybotrys chartarum affect your health?
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A: Typically, indoor air levels of Stachybotrys are low; however, as with other types of mold, at higher levels health effects can occur. These include allergic rhinitis (cold-like symptoms), dermatitis (rashes), sinusitis, conjunctivitis, and aggravation of asthma. Some related symptoms are more general - such as inability to concentrate and fatigue. Usually, symptoms disappear after the contamination is removed.
There has been some evidence linking Stachybotrys with pulmonary hemosiderosis in infants who are generally less than six months old. Pulmonary hemosiderosis is an uncommon condition that results from bleeding in the lungs. In studied cases of pulmonary hemosiderosis, the exposure to Stachybotrys came from highly contaminated dwellings, where the infants were continually exposed over a long period of time.
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How does mold grow?

A: All molds need water to grow. Mold can grow almost anywhere there is water damage, high humidity, or dampness. Most often molds are confined to areas near the source of water. Removing the source of moisture such as through repairs or dehumidification - is critical to preventing mold growth.
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Q: How can you tell if Stachybotrys chartarum is present in your home?
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A: Many molds are black in appearance but are not Stachybotrys. For example, the black mold commonly found between bathroom tiles is not Stachybotrys. Stachybotrys can be positively identified only by specially trained professionals (e.g., mycologists) through a microscopic exam.
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How does mold grow?

A: All molds need water to grow. Mold can grow almost anywhere there is water damage, high humidity, or dampness. Most often molds are confined to areas near the source of water. Removing the source of moisture ¬such as through repairs or dehumidification - is critical to preventing mold growth.
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