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Mold contamination has become more prevalent in construction defect litigation and has become an important issue to property managers and homeowners. This article, presented in two parts, is written to address community association concerns and suggest practical considerations regarding potential mold contamination.
In part one, we will discuss the practical and prudent considerations homeowners face when they first discover mold in their home.
You Discovered Mold
Mold may be found almost everywhere in our environment. Microscopic spores are present in the air both inside and outside homes. But in order for mold to colonize to the extent that it is visible and recognizable, it has to have a moist environment. It is reasonable, then, that the longer the mold is undisturbed and has a suitable environment, the bigger the colony may be.
Upon discovering mold, it is important to identify and rectify the cause of moisture that allowed the mold to grow. If the cause of moisture is due to spillage or leakage (aquariums, leaky faucets, pets, plant watering), then eliminating the source of moisture and then the mold colony will probably end your problem.
If you feel that the mold contamination is contained to a minimal surface, you may elect to remove the mold yourself by mixing up bleach and water in a spray bottle and wiping it away. Be aware that simply wiping away mold may release thousands of microscopic spores into the air and affect any person in the home who is sensitive to it.
Individuals with suppressed immune systems can be particularly sensitive to mold, especially the Stachybotris genus of mold, which can be toxic. This can include persons with immunity disorders or diseases, cancer patients, persons on medications which weaken the immune system or persons with extreme allergies.
Strong precautions should be taken to minimize exposure by these individuals. People who have these sensitivities should not attempt to remove the mold by themselves. A number of options can be considered for assistance in mold removal, ranging from removal by a nonsensitive member of the household to hiring an environmental remediation company.
Keep in mind, however, that the mold might not be limited to the surface of the wall where it is most visible. If there is mold in one portion of a damp area, such as the wall, it might also be present and colonized in or under the carpeting. If mold is present due to unknown moisture emanating from inside a wall or from under a slab, contamination may also extend inside the wall or under the slab.
If you decide on a do-it-yourself cleanup, proceed in a manner that will prevent spores from being released into the air. Make sure the area is well ventilated; avoid inhaling the mold; and be thorough, so that your chances for eradication are high.
If the mold continues to recur, and you think that the problem extends further into the home than you can see, you may want to hire an expert to identify and eradicate the problem.
Kirk D. Yoke is an attorney with the law firm Burdman & Benson.
"Mold" is the common name of visible fungal colonies. These fungi belong to a kingdom of organisms that include dry and powdery growth forms called "molds" and yeasts. Some people also refer to mold as "mildew," which is incorrect. Mildew refers to a specific group of fungi that cause plant disease.
Molds are a source of interior, bioaerosols (airborne particles that are living or originate from living organisms). Bioaerosols also include bacteria, dead microorganisms, and fragments of materials that may include toxins and particulate waste products from a variety of living things.
Every day people are exposed to a wide variety of mold, most of which will not harm healthy, non-allergic individuals. However people who are immuno-compromised (such as HIV or cancer patients) I or who have gies to specific airborne fungi may react negatively to its presence. Sensitivity, previous exposure, immune response and age will all affect the degree of symptoms exhibited.
The presence of certain fungi in indoor environments' is significant because of their ability to produce myco (metabolites that can cause adverse, health effects in sensitized humans and animals). Although most molds produce mycotoxins, those pro duced by a strain called, Stachybotrys can be particularly toxic, are suspected carcinogens and are immunosuppressive.
Steve Meyers CIH, CSP, is the director of health and safety for ERM-West Inc Terry L. Meyers is director of client services for Burdman & Benson, LLP.
© Copyright 2009 The Miller Law Firm. All rights Reserved.
If you experience problems or have questions, contact us at Info@ConstructionDefects.com.
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