Mold
Mold is a natural part of the environment and is present in outdoor air throughout the year. Mold can become a problem indoors when there is excess moisture or water, such as from leaking pipes, roof leaks, flooding, wet basements, condensation, or high humidity.
What Causes Mold?
Indoor mold growth is caused by a moisture or water problem. If you discover mold in your home, the most important step is to identify and correct the source of moisture.
Cleaning or removing mold without correcting the moisture problem may cause the mold to return. Common areas to check include:
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Bathrooms and kitchens
- Under sinks
- Laundry areas
- Around windows
- Areas with plumbing or roof leaks
- Areas that have experienced flooding or water damage
Should I Have My Home Tested for Mold?
Iowa HHS does not recommend routine testing of homes for mold.
According to Iowa HHS, mold testing can be expensive and difficult to interpret. Mold is naturally present in outdoor air, and there are no established regulatory levels or guidelines that can be used to determine whether a mold test result is considered safe or unsafe.
If you can see or smell mold, you should focus on correcting the moisture problem and appropriately cleaning or removing the mold rather than spending money on testing.
Mold & Your Health
Some people may be more sensitive to mold than others. Exposure to mold may contribute to allergic or respiratory symptoms, particularly in individuals who already have allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions.
If you are experiencing health symptoms that you believe may be related to mold exposure, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.
Mitchell County Public Health
Mitchell County Public Health can provide education and resources regarding mold and moisture concerns. Our office does not provide professional mold testing or mold remediation services.
For questions or resources, contact:
Mitchell County Public Health
415 Pleasant Street
Osage, Iowa 50461
Phone: 641-832-3500
Iowa HHS Mold Resources
Iowa HHS – Frequently Asked Questions About Mold: This is probably the best resource to feature prominently. It explains how to identify a mold problem, common causes, why Iowa HHS does not recommend mold testing, and what residents should do when mold is found.
Iowa HHS – Disaster Recovery Resources: This page has additional resources for homes affected by flooding, including information about mold, cleaning flooded basements, re-entering flooded homes, cleaning contaminated belongings, and handling sewage after a flood.
Iowa HHS – Environmental Health: Residents can also find information about Iowa HHS Environmental Health programs and resources here.
For general Iowa HHS assistance, the department's toll-free number is 800-972-2017.
