How Mold is Perceived in Politics, Insurance and the Real Estate Industries

MOISTURE, MOLD AND MILDEW
The Political, Insurance and Real Estate Controversy (Or Nightmare?) of the Millennium!

There's an ever present (ongoing) debate over 'What are the Human Health Effects' as they relate to Mold and exposure to Mold?

Allow me to share this vitally important point to begin. No two people are alike and no two people will experience the same effects from within the same indoor environment... at the same time! It is virtually impossible for two people to react or respond to the same mold specie and contamination the same way!

IS MOLD A PROBLEM?
The most frequent question I hear is: "Is mold a problem or not?" If it is a problem, then why hasn't the medical industry come up with a solution? What about our government or EPA or other taxpayer supported organizations or industries?

What are insurance companies doing about mold? All I hear is; Mold isn't covered by insurance companies.

Have you taken the time to review your "environmental clause" in your homeowners policy lately? Does it state or show that mold is covered? Probably not! The insurance industry has been completely broad-sided by the mold issue and they do not have an answer... except... to not provide coverage!

INSURANCE INDUSTRY
If you look at the mold issue through the eyes of the insurance industry, it's an enormous almost terrifying topic that has cost the industry billions of dollars in lawsuits. Almost all insurance policies "exclude" mold coverage. It must be proven that the mold is a direct result of a natural unavoidable water problem. If it is negligence, or hurricane or natural disaster... it most likely will not be covered. If it is caused by an internal plumbing problem (pipe burst) or washing machine hose broke etc., then you will have a chance as long as you are diligent and responsive regarding how you handle this matter. If you simply wait for the mold to grow and contaminate your dwelling... because you would like a new addition or newer fixtures or the wall-paper or paneling is old, and you want new replacements... then you are being negligent and the cost of repair will be yours! If you contact your insurance agent immediately upon noticing the flooded damage, and to all within your power to clean and dry-out your dwelling and furniture etc., then you probably will receive benefit from the insurance company.

REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY
When you look at the mold issue from the Real Estate standpoint, it's equally perplexing and troublesome. Why? Because a moldy home just doesn't sell... and today, just about everyone knows that mold can and will eventually cause physical damage to the building materials... and the residents (if exposed to living mold) long enough!

Remember, if the mold problem is not fully remediated and the moisture problem completely repaired, the mold will positively reoccur! Mold can and will come back over and over as long as the moisture problem exists, even if painted, or washed or disinfected... it must be remediated completely and that includes the moisture infiltration problem!

There was a time in the late 1990's and until just a couple of years ago, when a real estate agent would see the mold problem and immediately realize that if it isn't "removed," it will cost me a good portion (if not all) of my commission! So there was a tremendous amount of "odor masking" being done with candles, sprays and chemicals. There was a lot of painting or wall-papering or paneling over mold to "hide" it. Almost any method to cure the visible signs or odorous smells were taken to save the deal and save the commission.

Until January 1, 2004, Ohio was a "Buyer Beware" State, meaning that it was 100% the buyers responsibility to check out all aspects of a home (inspections, engineering reports etc., before they would place a bid or purchase the property! So, if the mold smell was masked, or the moldy wall or ceiling was painted or covered, they wouldn't notice the mold until after they purchased the home... and by then, they owned it and the mold! January 1, 2004, the Ohio Department of Commerce changed the status of Buyer Beware to: Disclosure Law - Yes, Disclosure was mandatory or you could be held responsible and legally liable if proven that you knew you had a mold problem and didn't disclose it! You could and would have to pay or compensate for damages!

Mold is present indoors and outdoors, and when you can smell it or it becomes visible, it must be dealt with! To deny it exists or to say it is unimportant... is wrong... and it can place you on the wrong side of a legal issue... you can become "legally liable" if you deny or fail to disclose a moisture problem or indoor environmental problem. Beware and be responsible. It's less costly to disclose as opposed to being sued!

I've made it my responsibility to "Educate!" both homeowners and real estate personnel. But, if they choose to ignore the information, then they will have to pay the piper... because mold knowledge it readily available. The EPA has excellent information EPA-2, and so do the following; The Center for Disease Control, New York City Department of Health. These are just a few of the "Credible" sources that all should be looking at. Texas, Florida, California, Minnesota, New York and Connecticut are only the beginning. Mold is quickly becoming the #1 study of Indoor Air Quality today.

MEDICAL INDUSTRY
The Medical industry is attempting to find a relationship between exposure limits to mold spores, and what effects (if any) occur... and to whom? The real question is... which molds effect which people and how long does it take for the effect to occur... if any? Medically speaking, all molds are allergenic in nature, and people exposed to mold spores for a long period of time have a greater potential to develop an allergic reaction to them.

Even today, we fully recognize that Asbestos has caused serious illnesses and health effects in many people. But, even asbestos (today) does not have a defined acceptable level of exposure, nor (in my opinion) will they be able to. The scientific and diagnostic uncertainties and concerns are virtually the same between asbestos and mold... because no two people are identical. In example; Two people are exposed to the identical mold for the exact same time period yet, both will produce unique results. Now multiply that times 6+ billion people living today... you can easily ascertain the virtual impossibility to establish reproducible scientific documentation that will satisfy the; legal, technological, economic, management and procedural aspects surrounding the mold issue.

SIMPLE FACT OF LIFE:
We live among a literal sea of air-borne contaminants, and yes, even mold spores day-in and day-out. They are present in all outdoor air and virtually all indoor air. There present in all climates and environments on our planet. The greatest exception to this form of exposure is the hospital (surgical) environment. There, they are geared to be the cleanest environments we know of, and for obvious reasons. Yet, even in a surgical environment, it is only 99% clean at best. Someone or something at some point in time will breach that barrier and pose a potential for contamination. The systems they use are extremely expensive and are under a constant 'Preventive Maintenance' inspection and program.

THE AIR WE BREATHE:
The air we breathe contains a smorgasbord of microbial contaminants. We have many defense mechanisms built into our human structure to detour and prevent most of them. For example, our nasal hairs are the beginning structures in the attempt to stop larger size particles from entering our respiratory system. Then our windpipe (trachea) has 'Cilia' present to assist in stopping or clearing unwanted particles and matter from invading our lungs.

The trachea consists of a supporting layer of connective and muscular tissue in which are embedded from 16 to 20 U-shaped rings of hard cartilage that encircle the front of the tube. Tiny hairs, or cilia, in the mucous membrane lining keep dust and other foreign particles from entering the lungs. The foreign material becomes trapped in the mucus and is swept by the beating cilia to the nose or mouth, where it is discharged from the body.

I always share with my clients, "If you can see or smell mold, then there's positively too much present and it must be removed!" This is also how and why spores can easily move through and around our nasal hairs (almost uninterrupted) and down and through our windpipe and finally rest inside our lungs (Our 'Breathing' Center). It's not a favorable situation.

It is the quantity and type of mold spores that travel into our body, and for how long, that is the important medical and scientific issue.

WHAT ARE THE RIGHT CONDITIONS FOR MOLD TO GROW?
There are three requirements; Heat, Moisture and Food. Mold that is present in our indoor air that we breathe will always have two of these three requirements present. They are; Heat and Food.

Remember that heat and food are always present... it's the moisture that we can and must control in order to stop the mold growth. Stop the Moisture...Stop the Mold!

CAN MOLD CAUSE HEALTH PROBLEMS?
Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold. Research on mold and health effects is ongoing. This information provides a brief overview; it does not describe all potential health effects related to mold exposure. For more detailed information consult a health professional. You may also wish to consult your state or local health department.

IN SUMMARY:
The medical industry hasn't found a 'common denominator' that is capable of satisfying the scientific, political and insurance communities. So just as Asbestos does not have 'acceptable levels of exposure' defined even today, we don't foresee a realistic conclusion on the near horizon for mold either. Why? Simple... there are over 6+ billion people living on our planet and each is unique... just as unique as their fingerprints. No two have the same likes or dislikes, perceptions or more importantly... the same metabolic or DNA makeup. We are all totally and completely anatomically (on the cellular level) different and we all have varying degrees of sensitivity to life's buffet of pollutants and contaminants.

If you can see mold, you have too much! If you can smell stale or musty indoor air... you probably have mold and you should get a professional in to test it. Before you go about scrubbing it off with bleach or biocides... it is highly recommended that you know "what" kind of mold you actually have and in "what" quantity. This will tell you if you have a pathogenic or toxigenic type of mold present. Believe me, the difference will matter... if medical conditions or litigation is involved.

For the cost of a normal evening out for a family of four, dinner, drinks and theater, you can have a good Indoor Air Quality Inspection. How long will people keep placing their health issues in the rear? How many people wait until it becomes a far too serious issue? Why are people so willing to tolerate being uncomfortable? Isn't it time we look at our QUALITY OF LIFE instead of the "how much can I tolerate and put up with?" Start looking out for #1 (YOU). Start looking out for your family! Start looking out for your employees! Start looking out for Health and Safety Issues in your Home or Place of Work!

This mold is commonly found in soil and on dead plant material. Indoors it grows on wet building materials like drywall ceiling tiles and building paper. Acremonium should be considered allergenic and may be a pathogen for immunocompromised individuals.

Commonly found in outdoor air, on many kinds of plants and foodstuffs and prefers rotting farmland manure. It may be resistant to fungicides. Alternaria is considered an occasional contaminant of water damaged building materials which contain cellulose. Although Alternaria is a notable source of fungal allergy, pathogenic infections are also reported infrequently.

There are a wide variety of species of Aspergillus. Some are considered opportunistic pathogens and may cause pulmonary infections. Some members also produce mycotoxins and have been implicated in causing allergic reactions and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Aspergillus type organisms are some of the first fungi to grow on water-damaged materials and are frequently found in water-damaged structures. Although they are commonly found in the outdoor environment, the outdoor frequency is generally considered low.

This yeast-like fungus is commonly found on caulk or damp window frames in bathrooms. Aureobasidium may be pink or black in color. Although it seldom causes infections, it can be allergenic. This is one type of mold that is a type of mildew. It will grow in cooler climates and along with Cladosporium is commonly found growing on siding.

Survives in soil. A gram positive rod which is part of a large family of organisms which are for the most part non-pathogenic for man.

Frequently associated with dry rot, Basidiomycetes are primarily mushrooms, toadstools, puffballs, rusts and smuts. High levels of these spores can contribute to allergies in indoor environments. Poria incrassata is a particularly destructive fungal organism that falls into this classification. Poria has resulted in the collapse of severely infested buildings.

Most commonly associated with plants, Botrytis can cause allergic asthma after indoor exposure. High levels are likely to be found in greenhouses or other indoor areas with high humidity and large numbers of plants.

Ceratocystis / Ophiostoma

This is a very common plant pathogen that is frequently found on lumber in lumberyards and is built into most homes. It has not been well studied and has not been reported to be pathogenic or a producer of mycotoxins or allergens.

Commonly found on deteriorating wood products, Chaetomium frequently emits a musty odor and is frequently found on water-damaged drywall. Its health effects have not been well studied, however some rare compounds have on occasion been identified as mutagenic.

Cladosporium is the genera most frequently encountered in both outdoor and indoor air. It is frequently found in elevated levels in water-damaged environments. Some species may be resistant to certain types of treated lumber.

A secondary invader of plant materials, Epicoccum can grow at higher temperatures than many fungi, allowing it to be a human skin pathogen. Colonies produce a wide variety of colors depending on the food source. Although it may be isolated from water damaged building materials, it is generally thought of as a typical outdoor organism.

Found in soils and on plants worldwide, Fusarium can invade corn and barley and produce toxins at lower temperatures than many fungi. Fusarium has affected water-damaged carpets and a variety of other building materials, and can cause infection in immunocompromised individuals. Its spores are typically slimy and may be difficult to isolated from air samples. It has also been implicated in exacerbation of allergies and asthma and may produce mycotoxins.

Gram Negative Rods

Group of bacteria commonly found in standing water or water saturated structures. Most are opportunistic pathogens. Many species release endotoxins that can cause headaches and allergic type reactions.

This mold is found worldwide and is frequently present in air samples. Mucor commonly grows on dung and moist hay. It is fast growing opportunistic and may cause rare infection in immunocompromised individuals. It is considered a mild allergen.

Penicillium species are common contaminants on various substances. This organism causes food spoilage, colonizes leather objects and is an indicator organism for dampness indoors. Some species are known to produce mycotoxins. The health of occupants may be adversely affected in an environment that has an amplification of Penicillium. Penicillium is one of the first fungi to grow on water-damaged materials and has been implicated in causing allergic reactions and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. It commonly produces a strong musty odor.

Found in decaying wood, soil, and plant material, Pithomyces is not known to cause infections or major health problems in humans. It has been found growing on paper but is not commonly found growing indoors.

Frequently found in house dust, soil, fruits, nuts, and seeds, Rhizopus often grows in fruit and vegetable garbage, or in forgotten leftover food. Exposure to large numbers of Rhizopus spores has reportedly caused respiratory complications. Rhizopus can be an allergen and opportunistic pathogen for immunocompromised individuals, especially those with diabetic ketoacidosis, malnutrition, or severe burns.

A common contaminant that can cause toenail infections.

A common soil contaminant. Non-pathogenic to humans.

Stachybotrys chartarum

Stachybotrys grows well on extremely wet building materials containing cellulose that have remained wet for more than a week. It produces mycotoxins that can irritate skin and mucous membranes. One potent mycotoxin produced by Stachybotrys is called satratoxin; it is also toxic when inhaled. Extreme care should be taken when this organism is amplified indoors.

Sterile Mycellium

Fungi that are not mature enough for speciation.

Generally non-pathogenic. Some species can cause infections in humans. Also produces potentially harmful mycotoxins. Odor characteristic of freshly tilled soil. Important in the pharmaceutical industry.

One of the most widespread soil fungi, Trichoderma grows in carpet, on unglazed ceramics, and on paper in damp homes. Some species produce metabolites related to trichothecenes, which can be toxic and may cause symptoms like those associated with Stachybotrys chartarum. It is also an allergen and may infect immunocompromised individuals.

Isolated from soil, wood, and decaying plant material, Ulocladium grows on very wet walls and particleboard. Because of its high water requirements it is considered an excellent indicator of water damage. This genera is allergenic, contributing to the allergy load especially in those with Alternaria allergy.

Found worldwide in house dust, air samples, dry foodstuffs and soil. Wallemia attacks materials with low water activity, is an allergen and may produce mycotoxins. It is known to grow on materials with high salt content.

Common in moist habitats and often able to grow at reduced oxygen levels. This organism can cause allergies and can be an opportunistic pathogen.