Mold

Mold problems in buildings are a result of moisture from leaks and condensation. IDHW does not perform tests for mold, but provides tenants and landlords resources for addressing water and moisture problems.

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year-round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions.”

People exposed to molds may experience symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, skin rash, headaches or difficulty breathing. If you or your family members have health problems that you think are caused by mold, talk to your doctor.

Most people do not appear to be affected by everyday exposure to mold. However, people who have allergies, asthma or weakened immune systems may be more sensitive to molds than others.

Testing for mold is not necessary. You can typically see or smell mold. Mold comes in many different colors. It may appear as small black, yellow, green or white specks along your bathroom or basement walls. Color is not an indication of how dangerous a mold may be. Any mold should be removed and the moisture source that helped it grow should be removed

Health and Welfare does not perform tests or inspections of homes for mold problems. We respond to requests for assistance by providing information and recommendations on how to treat and prevent the potential health effects of mold.

All mold cleanup methods are the same, regardless of mold type. To clean up and remove mold growth, follow these steps as they apply to your home:

Prevent and control mold growth indoors by controlling moisture in the following ways.

There are no federal or State of Idaho regulations regarding mold inspection requirements or mold cleanup.

Tenants and landlords both have responsibilities for addressing water and moisture problems that can cause mold. Generally, fixing leaks is the landlord’s responsibility but reducing condensation is the renter’s responsibility. Sometimes maintenance issues can become landlord and renter rights issues.