What Happens If You Ignore Mold in Your Home?

It is tempting to wipe a stain, paint over it, and move on. The problem is that mold growth is a symptom of moisture, and as long as the moisture remains, the growth usually does too. Here is what can happen when mold and moisture problems are left alone.

Mold needs moisture and something to grow on, and ordinary building materials such as drywall paper, wood, and insulation can provide the food. As long as a leak, condensation, or high humidity keeps materials damp, growth can continue and spread across wet materials, including inside wall cavities, under flooring, and above ceilings where it is not visible.

The EPA's core advice is to fix the water problem and dry water-damaged materials within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Cleaning or painting over growth without fixing the moisture usually means it comes back.

Mold growing indoors can release spores and odors into the indoor air. A persistent musty smell is one of the most common signs that there is growth somewhere, even when none is visible.

According to the CDC, for some people mold can cause a stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing or wheezing, burning eyes, or skin rash. People with asthma or mold allergies may have severe reactions, and immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung disease may get lung infections from mold.

The CDC also says you do not need to know the type of mold: whatever type is present, the growth should be removed and the moisture problem fixed. Mold testing does not diagnose medical conditions and cannot show whether mold caused a particular person's symptoms. If you have health concerns, talk with a physician.

The moisture that supports mold can also damage the building. Over time, persistent moisture and growth can stain and degrade drywall, damage flooring and trim, wet insulation so it performs poorly, and contribute to wood decay in framing. The longer a moisture problem continues, the more material is typically affected and the larger the eventual repair.

Past water damage and mold can become a question during a real estate transaction. California sellers have disclosure obligations, and buyers may request inspections. Addressing moisture problems and keeping documentation of inspections, repairs, and any remediation helps answer those questions. For guidance on your specific obligations, talk with your real estate agent or attorney.

1. Find and fix the moisture source. A leak, condensation, or high humidity is the root cause.
2. Have the area evaluated. A professional inspection looks at visible conditions and moisture and determines whether sampling is appropriate. The EPA notes that in most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary.
3. Remove the growth appropriately. The EPA says homeowners can often clean small areas (under about 10 square feet) themselves once the moisture is fixed; larger areas may call for a professional remediation contractor.
4. Consider independent post-remediation verification after professional remediation. Learn how post-remediation verification works.

Just Mold Testing is an independent mold inspection and testing company serving Los Angeles and surrounding areas. We test. We don't remediate.

A professional initial mold inspection is $49. If you proceed with mold testing during the visit, the $49 inspection fee is waived. Any recommended testing and pricing are explained before samples are collected, and no additional testing is performed without your approval.

Book an inspection or call (818) 658-9336. We are available 24/7.