<< Back to Mold - What To Do main page
Preventing Mold Growth
The best way to prevent mold growth is to control indoor moisture. Keep surfaces dry by wiping them down after showering or cooking, or increase airflow with exhaust fans or opening windows. Maintain a healthy indoor environment by using dehumidifiers or air conditioners to keep humidity below 50%. Let sunlight into the home, clean regularly with natural mold-fighting solutions and insulate cold surfaces to prevent condensation.
Finding the Source of Water Intrusion
- Root Cause: Mold growth is often a result of water intrusion. Identifying and addressing the source of moisture is crucial to prevent mold from returning.
- Common Sources: Check for leaks in roofs, windows, and pipes, as well as areas with poor ventilation or high humidity.
- Repair and Prevention: Fix any leaks or water issues promptly and ensure proper ventilation by using exhaust fans, dehumidifiers or opening windows in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements.
Identifying Mold
- Visual Signs: Mold often appears as spots or patches in various colors, including black, green, white, or brown. It can grow on walls, ceilings, floors, and other surfaces.
- Odor: A musty or earthy smell can indicate the presence of mold, even if it is not visible.
- Health Symptoms: Exposure to mold can cause symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, and skin rashes.
Is Testing Necessary?
- When to Test: Mold testing is generally not necessary if visible mold is present. However, testing can be useful if there are health concerns or if the source of mold is not apparent.
- Professional Assessment: A DOEE-licensed mold professional can conduct testing to determine the type and extent of mold contamination.
When to Hire a Professional
- Tenants Present: Homeowners must hire a DOEE-licensed mold professional if the home is occupied by a tenant and mold contamination covers more than ten square feet. As a landlord, you must inspect affected areas within 7 days of receiving written notice from the tenant and remediate within 30 days.
- Small Areas: For mold contamination less than ten square feet, follow the DOEE’s Guidance Document for assessment and remediation.
- List of Licensed Mold Professionals
Private homeowners do not need to hire a DOEE-licensed mold professional to inspect or remove mold if the home is only occupied by the owner (no tenants). In these cases, consult the DOEE Guidance Document for assessing and remediating mold conditions that cover a surface area of less than ten square feet. For areas with mold covering more than ten square feet, the Department requires a licensed mold assessor or remediator for multi-family dwellings.
DOEE Mold Regulations
The DOEE has published the final version of the District's Mold Assessment and Remediation Regulations, establishing a licensing program for mold assessment and remediation professionals. The DOEE recommends that DC homeowners choose a DOEE-licensed mold professional to address mold concerns in their homes.
- Licensing Requirements: No person can assess or remediate mold without a corresponding DOEE license. To obtain a license, individuals must meet several requirements, including passing a DOEE-approved exam. Each license is valid for two years.
- Project Notification: Licensed mold professionals must notify the DOEE of all projects and adhere to performance standards and work practices as required by the regulations.
Additional Information
Many federal agencies provide information about mold and mold remediation:
- A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC) - Includes information about mold exposure, remediation, and related literature.
- Mold Cleanup in Your Home | US EPA: EPA Guidance on Mold Cleanup in Your Home