Mold spores

Mold spores are everywhere. EPA says they are found both indoors and outdoors and cannot be eliminated from indoor environments. CDC agrees that no indoor space is completely free of them.

So the spores alone are not the problem. Moisture is. EPA explains that mold needs moisture and food to grow indoors, and that moisture is the most important factor. Spores that land on dry surfaces just sit there.

Trouble starts after a leak, a flood, a damp basement or a sweating pipe. Spores land on wet drywall, wood or ceiling tile and begin to grow. Within days you may see spots or smell a musty odor.

This explains why a good plan targets the water first. A cleanup crew can lower the spore load, but only drying and repair keep it low. A thorough mold inspection looks for the moisture source. The full work plan is in mold remediation.