What to Do If You Have Mold in Your Home

Mold isn’t always obvious. Common signs of a mold problem include:

• Visible black, green, or white spots on walls or ceilings
• A persistent musty or earthy odor
• Recent water damage, leaks, or flooding
• Peeling paint, warped drywall, or discoloration
• Allergy-like or respiratory symptoms that improve when leaving the home

Mold commonly develops in bathrooms, basements, crawlspaces, attics, under sinks, and around windows—anywhere moisture is present.

Mold growth always begins with moisture. If the moisture source isn’t corrected, mold will continue to return regardless of cleaning or treatment.

Common moisture sources include roof or plumbing leaks, poor ventilation, high indoor humidity, and flooding or water intrusion. Wet materials should be dried within 24–48 hours, and indoor humidity should be kept below 50% whenever possible.

Small areas of surface mold on non-porous materials may sometimes be cleaned safely once moisture is controlled.

However, DIY mold removal is not recommended when:

• Mold covers more than a small area
• Mold is inside walls, ceilings, insulation, or flooring
• The HVAC system may be affected
• Someone in the home has asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions

Improper cleanup can spread mold spores and make the problem worse.

Homeowners often unintentionally worsen mold problems by:

• Painting or sealing over mold
• Using bleach on porous materials like drywall or wood
• Scrubbing mold without proper containment
• Ignoring hidden mold behind walls or under flooring

These actions do not eliminate the underlying issue and may increase exposure.

A professional mold inspection can help identify the source of moisture, determine the extent of mold growth, and clarify whether remediation is necessary.

Inspections are especially important after flooding, during real estate transactions, or when mold continues to return despite cleanup efforts.

If remediation is required, MICRO recommends working with professionals who:

• Follow recognized industry standards (such as IICRC guidelines)
• Use proper containment and HEPA air filtration
• Remove contaminated materials safely
• Address the moisture source—not just visible mold
• Provide clear documentation of the work performed

Be cautious of companies that promise mold will “never come back” or skip containment procedures.

While mold issues are being addressed:

• Avoid disturbing affected areas
• Keep children and pets away from work zones
• Follow professional guidance regarding occupancy
• Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen

To help homeowners better understand mold and moisture issues, MICRO offers a free educational guide designed specifically for consumers.

Helpful Tips for Homeowners – Mold & Moisture Guidance
This free PDF provides practical tips, common mold myths and facts, moisture control basics, and guidance on when to seek professional help.

Download your free copy here:

Mold in the home can be managed safely when addressed early and correctly. Ignoring mold—or attempting unsafe cleanup—can lead to unnecessary health risks and costly repairs.

Education is the first step. At MICRO, we’re proud to support homeowners with clear, science-based information they can trust.