Molds, are members of the fungi kingdom, they are not plants because among other things they lack chlorophyll. However they are plant like in some respects, for example like some simple plants such as mosses and ferns molds generate seed like reproductive particles called spores that are designed to move in air. These mold spores being airborne exist indoors as well as outdoors. Both the residents and the employee’s health are at stake if the mold spores indoors are at elevated levels.
Mold causes lots of ailments:

• According to a well respected MAYO clinic finding they cause almost all sinus infection.
• According to a well respected Institute Of Medicine study, mold, mold odor, and moisture in buildings, has been linked to many upper respiratory problems such as allergy (itchy eyes, runny nose, coughing, sneezing,) as well as asthma problems in asthmatics.(tightness of chest and sometimes very serious difficulty breathing).
• According to other scientific studies mold odor, even in the absence of spores has been linked to a two fold or 200% increased chance of asthma development in children.
It is also well known that mold can cause skin rash and, and in some rare cases can cause flu like organic toxic dust syndrome, and a more long term condition with pneumonia like symptoms known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis. In persons with a compromised immune systems it can cause infections of the lungs or other parts of the body. Toxic mold can cause serious toxic reactions if eaten, or via other exposure routs. But toxic molds such as Tricoderma, Fusarium, Mamnonellia, some species of Penicillium, and Aspergillus, and of course the much feared Stachybotrys also known as toxic black mold has not yet been proven to cause toxic reactions when breathed in at the levels found in residential and office settings.
Typically it is not all the people in the house who are affected. But persons with asthma or allergy, small children, infants, elders, and people who are already suffering with grave health problems face acute problems.
“Prevention is better than cure” can be followed in controlling the development of mold. If you can adhere to these tips on mold control then you might keep away from perilous ailments.
Homeowner Tips

• When you notice plumbing or roof leaks indoors you have to respond immediately. If wet areas or materials are dried within 24 to 48 hours, the mold growth can usually be restricted.

• The drip pans of the air conditioner should be kept clean and the drain lines free and unhindered. Condensation leak related mold under AC units is very common. By the way mold in or near your AC is one of the most detrimental places for mold to occur because the AC will bring it to you via your ducts.

• Ensure the slope of the ground is at a distance from the foundation of the building to avoid water pool around the foundation.

• Maintain the humidity below 60%RH indoors, the old ASHRA rule of below 65%RH was abandoned years ago. I live in South Florida so believe me when I tell you I have seen mold do serious expensive damage because the humidity was at or above 65%RH. If humidity problem persists call a mold inspector who also deals with humidity problems.
• If you happen to notice moisture or condensation accumulating on walls, pipes, AC registers, or AC ducts in your attic, do not hesitate or waste any moment. Firstly dry the entire moist surface and decrease the humidity level. If the problem persists call a mold inspector who also deals with humidity problems. Condensation can be considered an indication of high humidity.
• Clothes dryers and bathroom vents should have an outlet outside so that it exhausts humidity.
• In humid climates keeps doors and windows closed.



Renter Tips

• Renters should report moisture problems and plumbing leaks instantly to your building manager or the owner.

• If you get no satisfaction from your landlord do not stop paying your rent, first contact an attorney, he or she will probably tell you to have a mold inspection report with remediation protocol prepared. The protocol shows the landlord what must be done and by whom. If the inspection report and remediation protocol recommendations are not followed in a reasonably timely manner then you have a better chance of breaking your lease. Consult a mold attorney or real estate attorney, we are not lawyers. A cheap mold test will not result in much; you need a professional inspection report and remediation protocol prepared by a certified and experienced professional mold inspector.

• If there is relentless water or air quality problems in a public building you may contact the state, or local health department.

• Pursue your hunt for moisture and mold signs on your home or office. If it is found do not try to clean it yourself, in most cases you should call a professional mold inspector for proper inspection, assessment, testing, and recommendations.

The mold control tips are intended to not only protect your materials and building, but also are intended to deter mold related health complaints. Remember that these are helpful tips and not in any way the final answer or a guaranteed cure, you should have a mold test and inspection conducted by a trained and certified mold inspector if you suspect problems.

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