Mold is found almost everywhere –both indoors and outdoors. Molds use spores to reproduce. The spores are invisible to the naked eye, but float through the air. Mold begins to grow after spores land on wet surfaces. Everyone is exposed to some amount of mold on a daily basis without harm.

Mold Pamphlet

Health Problems

Exposure to high concentrations of indoor mold can cause health problems. Mold spores produce substances that can cause allergic reactions. Allergic responses include skin rashes, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. A person who is allergic to molds is likely to react more severely than a person with no known allergies. 

Testing for Mold

There are currently no federal or state standards and regulations for mold testing. Due to this, Livingston County Health Department (LCHD) does not usually recommend testing for mold. No matter what type or quantity of mold is present, you should remove it. LCHD does not perform mold investigations or provide testing services. However, LCHD is available to assist with questions about mold, the effects of mold and mold growth, and mold prevention.

When considering legal action, do not focus on the mold, focus on the cause of the mold. If the mold was caused by a contactor/landlord negligence, there may be legal steps you can take. Check with your local building officials for further guidance. 

Cleaning & Remediating Mold

Typically, if mold is present in a home, there is a source of moisture (i.e. historical or current leak, inadequate ventilation, too much moisture in the air, etc.). Indoor mold growth can be prevented or controlled by addressing the moisture source. If mold is cleaned, but the water problem still exists, the mold will likely grow back. For more information, follow these steps for cleaning mold

If you have a severe mold allergy, hiring a Mold Remediation Contractor may be the best solution. 

 

Last Modified November 8, 2023

Environmental Health
Livingston County Health Department Logo
Matt Bolang

Matt Bolang
Health Officer

Q

Phone

(517) 546-9858

Hours

Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Closed County Holidays

Location

2300 E Grand River Ave
Suite 102
Howell, MI 48843

Fax

(517) 546-9853
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