Mold and mildew, both types of fungus, thrive in warm and moist areas. These conditions are common in many rental properties, making it essential to keep these homes clean and safe from the damage that mold and mildew can cause. Knowing how to spot the difference between toxic mold and mildew is crucial to prevent a little problem from turning into a costly and dangerous one.
There are many different kinds of mold and mildew, though most are not considered toxic or poisonous. Many tenants may not fully understand the difference. For example, mildew is a common surface fungus that typically appears flat and powdery, often gray or white in color. It frequently gathers in bathrooms or areas that are frequently damp, where it can smell bad if left unchecked. The good news is that mildew can usually be removed quite easily using a bleach solution and a scrub brush.
Identifying and Addressing Toxic Mold in Rental Properties
Mold is usually more invasive and much harder to remove. It often hides in walls and ceilings, particularly in places with high humidity or water damage, making mold hard to spot. A common early sign of a mold problem is the musty smell that lingers in the air. You might also see it in a variety of colors, such as black, green, or even red, and it may appear fuzzy or slimy.
Toxic mold, specifically Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra), is a greenish-black mold that requires constant moisture to grow. It commonly appears after significant water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, or flooding. Although not everyone will react negatively to toxic mold, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) notes that some people may experience physical symptoms after exposure to this strain of mold, including respiratory problems, headaches, dizziness, skin rashes, infections, and even asthma.
Preventing Mold Growth Through Regular Maintenance and Tenant Education
Once mold begins to spread, it becomes extremely difficult and expensive to get rid of. While some hard surfaces can be cleaned with bleach, porous materials like carpets, wallboards, and furniture often need to be completely replaced.
To prevent serious mold problems, it’s important to catch any potential issues early. This begins with educating your tenants on how to stop mildew and mold growth in their rental homes. Routine inspections are also critical. As part of your rental home’s routine maintenance, be sure to check for evidence of water damage and mold regularly. If water leaks, condensation, or signs of flooding are detected, they should be addressed immediately to minimize the growth of mold. If mold is found in your rental home, it indicates a significant problem with water or moisture, which needs to be resolved. Simply cleaning the property won’t be enough if the underlying issues are not fixed.
When you work with Real Property Management Citadel, you benefit from a range of professional services, including regular inspections and comprehensive checks to catch problems before they get worse. We can help you stay ahead of mold and mildew in your Orange rental properties, ensuring your property stays clean and safe. Contact us online or call us at 949-202-1500 for expert assistance.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
