Mold and mildew are often confused because they thrive in similar environments, but they are distinct in important ways. For you and your tenants, understanding the difference between the two is crucial to maintaining a safe, clean-living space in your Ellsworth rental properties. Knowing how to differentiate between mildew and toxic mold will help you address issues early and avoid costly repairs down the line.
There are many different kinds of mold and mildew, most of which are not considered toxic or poisonous. Still, tenants may not be fully aware of what mold or mildew looks like or how to handle it. Mildew is a surface fungus that tends to appear gray or white and is usually flat and powdery. It commonly accumulates in damp spaces like bathrooms and can give off an unpleasant odor if left untreated. The good news? Mildew is usually easy for tenants to remove with bleach and a brush.
Identifying and Addressing Toxic Mold in Rental Properties
Mold can be more invasive and challenging to remove. Mold tends to hide inside walls or ceilings where there is humidity or water damage. The first indicator of mold is typically a persistent musty smell. It can also appear in colors like black, green, or red and may have a fuzzy or slimy texture.
One of the most concerning types of mold is Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra), a greenish-black mold that thrives on materials like fiberboard and paper. This mold requires constant moisture, usually from water damage, leaks, or excessive humidity. 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 takes hold, eliminating it can be a time-consuming and expensive process. While bleach can remove mold from hard surfaces, materials like carpets, wallboards, and furniture often need to be discarded and replaced. That’s why early intervention is key.
Your tenants are the first line of defense when it comes to preventing mold. Educating them on how to reduce mildew and mold growth is crucial. However, mold is tricky and often goes unnoticed, which is why regular maintenance checks in rental homes are essential. Any signs of water leaks, condensation, or flooding should be addressed immediately to prevent mold from growing.
If mold is found, it’s important to resolve the underlying moisture problem that caused it. Simply cleaning the mold isn’t enough if the conditions that allowed it to grow still exist.
When you hire Real Property Management Acadia, you get access to expert evaluations and routine inspections designed to catch issues before they escalate. Our skilled team helps keep your Ellsworth rental homes free from mold and mildew. Contact us online or call 207-561-7482 today to learn more about our services.
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