Indoor Exposure to Mold and Dampness
Background
Mold is a type of fungus that requires water or moisture to grow. Mold contamination inside buildings can be caused by problems such as water leakage through roofs or walls, plumbing leaks, uncontrolled humidity, or condensation. Mold contamination and dampness are common in buildings in the U.S., and these problems may become more prevalent in the future, with the expected increase in heavy precipitation events resulting from climate change.
Exposure to indoor mold and dampness can cause a variety of health effects. According to the California Department of Public Health, “Human health studies have led to a consensus among scientists and medical experts that the presence in buildings of (a) visible water damage, (b) damp materials, (c) visible mold, or (d) mold odor indicates an increased risk of respiratory disease for occupants. Known health risks include: the development of asthma; the triggering of asthma attacks; and increased respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis, wheeze, cough, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms.” The Department also states that “some people are more sensitive to the effects of dampness mold….However, it is becoming increasingly clear that individuals not sensitized to mold may experience health effects…If you can see mold, water damage, or moisture, or smell mold, there is at least some increased health risk. The more extensive or severe the dampness and mold, the greater the risk of health effects.”
ELI has developed research reports and other materials that discuss policy strategies to address indoor mold and dampness. Research reports highlight state policies in effect as of the date of publication, while other materials are updated periodically to reflect new policy developments.
ELI Indoor Mold Materials
Database of State Indoor Air Quality Laws (Mold Excerpt)
Topics in School Environmental Health - Overview of State Laws (Mold Chapter)
Indoor Air Quality in Rental Dwellings
Indoor Air Quality in Homes: State Policies for Improving Health Now and Addressing Future Risks in a Changing Climate (Mold Chapter) (2016)
Reducing Environmental Exposures in Child Care Facilities: A Review of State Policy (Mold Chapter) (2015)
Opportunities for Policy Action
Controlling moisture is the key to controlling indoor mold growth. To reduce exposure to mold and dampness indoors it is important to act quickly to fix water problems or leaks, clean or remove moldy materials, and dry or throw out damp materials. EPA provides guidance on steps for cleaning up mold and notes that “in most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary.”
State policy can play an important role in advancing evidence-based practices to prevent and correct indoor mold and dampness problems in homes, schools, and other buildings. Building codes and other policies governing new construction and renovations can incorporate moisture control measures. State laws that set minimum property maintenance standards for rental dwellings, schools, child care facilities, and workplaces can require building owners and managers to conduct preventive maintenance and take prompt corrective action. And states can ensure that agencies have adequate resources for implementing laws and offering technical assistance to building managers and operators.
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