Do I have Mold?
This is a question we are receiving many, many times per day at United Fire and Water. The flood created the perfect environment for rapid mold growth: persistent moisture, something to feed on , and increased temperature. The State of Louisiana requires a mold license for any work related to mold for any services over $1. Why would the state do this? Because of the out of state, inexperienced contractors who came to the state following Hurricane Katrina. Contractors came in and offered solutions that DIDN’T WORK. And customers got left with a very expensive bill for services that simply were not effective.
Mold in the Home
“Black Mold,” the most infamous toxic mold- stachybotrys atra, is actually quite rare. So while it is unlikely that you have it there are plenty of other more common molds that can make people ill. And any mold can certainly be fatal to your shoes, clothing, home etc!
Molds are always present in our environment, but they can become a problem in any structure if excessive water or moisture problems are not appropriately and quickly addressed. Thus, your first step should be to inform your landlord about this. Left unattended, mold can rot lumber, drywall and other building materials so it behooves you to find out if there is mold in the house, and if so to remedy the situation to avoid increasingly more costly property damage.
Mold Growth
The public has become increasingly aware of the health risks associated with molds. Certain sensitive people, including the elderly, young children and those with respiratory ailments, often suffer adverse affects from prolonged exposure to or increased levels of molds. Common symptoms include eye, nose and throat irritation, excessive colds, nausea, compromised immune systems and respiratory complications such as lung infections or asthma. However, completely healthy individuals with no history of allergies can also react to amplified levels of molds.
