How to Rid Your Rentals of Mold

Posted on: May 29, 2007

More and more renters are looking for signs of mold as they shop for places to rent, and environmental experts say there are good reasons to be cautious. Only a few molds exist that can be very toxic or cause infections in healthy humans, but mold doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Some molds can cause infections that weaken the immune systems and trigger other diseases. If someone is allergic to mold, or has asthma, he/she can become very ill with minor exposure. More importantly, mold eats building materials; this can cause costly repairs or make a home unliveable.

Moisture is the most common instigator of mold issues. Obvious signs of mold include musty odors, discolored walls or caulking, peeling paint or wallpaper; also, black staining on walls, floors, windows, and even carpet. Mold needs moisture, oxygen, and temperatures usually between 40-100 degrees to grow. Most molds die or go dormant in temperatures over 100 degrees. Mold lives on dead organic material such as cut wood, paper, fabric, some synthetic paints, and adhesives. Some molds only need 70% humidity to grow; a good reason to install exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.

Mild cases of mold can be eliminated by scrubbing with mild soap, or bleach, and water; don’t mix the soap and bleach. Be sure to use plastic or latex gloves and mask. For more extensive contamination, a professional certified in killing and cleaning mold should be used. Click here for more information about mold and mold elimination from the EPA. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is another great resource for mold elimination and prevention. The Multnomah County CDC can be reached at (503)988-3406.