{"id":8044,"date":"2019-07-18T14:30:31","date_gmt":"2019-07-18T18:30:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/environmental-health\/?page_id=8044"},"modified":"2024-10-02T13:38:48","modified_gmt":"2024-10-02T17:38:48","slug":"mold","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/environmental-health\/public-health-toxicology\/mold\/","title":{"rendered":"Mold"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Molds are fungi that can be found everywhere. They reproduce by means of spores that are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. \u00a0These fungi can grow on almost any substance where moisture is present. Molds can grow on ceilings, walls, under sinks, drywall, ductwork, furniture, and wood, among other materials. When there is a lot of moisture present, high humidity, and temperatures are above 65\u00b0F, mold spores become active and start to grow rapidly. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture. Outdoors, molds can break down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. The key to controlling indoor mold growth is controlling the moisture source.<\/p>\n

NOTE:\u00a0<\/strong>VDH does not have the capability to provide environmental testing or remediation for mold problems, or provide legal advice. Concerned citizens are advised to follow the practical advice given on this site, refer to additional resources, and if necessary, consult an environmental specialist.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

General Information<\/h3>\n
\n\tHealth Effects from Mold Exposure<\/strong><\/span>
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Some people are affected by the presence of mold while others can live in places with a large amount of mold and not experience any symptoms. Allergic reaction is the most commonly reported health effect of mold exposure. If you cough, wheeze, or have difficulty breathing around mold, you may be sensitive to certain molds. If continuously exposed to mold, some people may develop symptoms such as watery, itchy, burning or red eyes; nose or throat irritation; sneezing; coughing or wheezing; constant headaches; memory problems or mood changes; aches and pains; and in some cases, hives, welts, or skin rash. Mold spores cannot be seen but can be inhaled, which can cause irritation or infection in the lungs and make it harder to breathe.<\/p>\n\n

Those who are more likely than others to develop symptoms from mold exposure include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with asthma or other respiratory diseases.\u00a0 People with suppressed immune systems (e.g. HIV\/AIDs infection, organ transplant patients, chemotherapy patients) should avoid heavy mold infestations. If possible, susceptible individuals should not live in buildings where mold is growing, and should consult their family physician if symptoms develop or persist.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\nBlack Mold<\/strong><\/span>

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One species of mold (Stachbotrys chartarum<\/em>), known as black mold, may cause more serious health effects to people who are sensitive to mold.\u00a0 For more information, you can view our Freqently Asked Questions about Black Mold document here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

School Mold Reporting<\/h3>\n
\n\tSchool Mold Testing<\/strong><\/span>
\n\nBeginning July 1, 2021, local school boards are required to develop and implement a plan to test and, if necessary, a plan to remediate mold in public school buildings in accordance with guidance issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. More information is available here<\/a>. <\/div>\n
\nMold Remediation in Schools<\/strong><\/span>
\n\nSchools are required to address mold in schools in accordance with EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide<\/a>. <\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

For Help With Mold<\/h3>\n
\n\tRental Properties\/Apartments<\/strong><\/span>
\n\nIf you live in an apartment and you feel that your landlord\/property manager has not promptly addressed your concerns, please contact the Virginia Office of the Attorney General\u2019s\u00a0Consumer Protection Section<\/a>. The Office of Consumer Protection provides information to individuals on matters related to landlord-tenant issues, and can be reached at either 804-786-2042 or 1-800-552-9963.\u00a0 Additionally, the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Sections 55-248.2 through 55-248.40 of the Code of Virginia) establishes the rights and obligations of residential landlords and tenants in the Commonwealth, but only the courts can enforce those rights and obligations.\u00a0 To review the Act, please click on Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act<\/a>.\n\n<\/div>
\n\nHomeowners<\/strong><\/span>
\n\nA law that went into effect in July 2024 requires contractors who do mold remediation on homes in Virginia to have certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) does not<\/em> assess the credentials of, or make recommendations regarding, specific mold specialists.\n\nFor more information, follow the guidelines published by the EPA:\n