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Resources: Newsletter Articles: Toxic Mold Is Nothing To Sneeze At

The legal community has been calling toxic mold the "asbestos of the new millennium.: Hoping that this problem would disappear as quickly as it appeared is looking unlikely. California's Toxic Mold Protection Act went into effect January 1, 2002, requiring the state Department of Health Services to establish permissible mold exposure limits and set standards on how to handle serious mold infestations.

Toxic mold, stachybotrys, has been found in all 50 states and grows in areas that are damp. Leaking roofs, leaky plumbing, sewer backups and standing water in the sub area can also create environments for this dangerous mold. While most kinds of mold are not hazardous if you're healthy, breathing mold spores may cause you to develop asthma or hay fever, or worsen existing symptoms. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, when inhaled or ingested, toxic mold can cause: Nasal and sinus congestion, coughing, wheezing or other breathing difficulties, skin and eye irritation and upper respiratory and sinus infections.

Mold problem seems to be growing: why?

Mold is ancient, everywhere and vital for life. Molds reproduce as fungi's microscopic spores find damp organic material on which to grow. Our homes act as food for mold. Most indoor molds are not dangerous, but they can cause damage through dry rot. Since the late 70's architects have designed energy-efficient interior environments that reduce ventilation in our homes and work places. When "tight" buildings have water leaks and/or poor ventilation, they tap high humidity and become hothouses for mold spores. Additionally, modern construction materials include fragmented materials that molds feast on.

The big picture

Last week the biggest homeowners insurance carrier in California declined to write future policies in California based on this issue and how it affects them as insurers. This also impacts sellers with newly required disclosures and inspections.

How to combat mold in your home

The most effective way to treat mold is to correct the underlying water condition and clean the affected area. One way to inhibit mold growth is to reduce indoor humidity:

  • Vent bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside.
  • Use air conditioners and dehumidifiers. Increase ventilation.
  • Use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing or cleaning.
  • Fix plumbing leaks and adverse water conditions.



Sherry Benninger

sherrybenninger@grubbco.com

The GRUBB Co., 1960 Mountain Blvd., Oakland, CA 94611

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