Mold and mildew, both types of fungus, are common in warm and moist areas, especially in Riverside rental properties. Keeping these areas clean and safe is critical to avoid health risks and expensive damage. By learning how to spot the difference between toxic mold and mildew, you can prevent a little problem from growing into a larger one.
There are many different kinds of mold and mildew, most of which are not considered toxic or poisonous. And chances are that your renter doesn’t know much about mold or mildew, what it looks like, or what to do if they find it. Mildew, a common surface fungus, usually looks flat and powdery and is typically found in bathrooms or other areas that are frequently damp. Luckily, mildew can usually be removed quite easily with a bleach solution and a scrub brush.
Identifying and Addressing Toxic Mold in Rental Properties
Mold tends to grow in walls and ceilings, particularly where there is high humidity or water damage, making it hard to spot. A mold problem is often first recognized by its smell – mold smells musty. Mold may also appear fuzzy or sometimes slimy in colors ranging from black to green to red.
One of the most harmful types of mold is toxic mold, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as Stachybotrys atra. This greenish-black mold thrives in environments with consistent moisture, often following significant water damage, condensation, or water leaks, 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 sets in, it can be difficult and expensive to remove. While hard surfaces can be cleaned with bleach, other items like carpets and cabinets may need to be completely replaced.
The key to preventing mold is to catch any potential problems early. Tenants should be informed on how to prevent mold problems and ways to mitigate mildew and mold growth in their rental homes.
Because mold can be hard to detect, every rental home’s routine maintenance should include checks for evidence of water damage and mold. If any signs of water leaks, condensation, or flooding are found, they need to be corrected immediately to minimize the growth of mold. If mold is found in your rental home, it likely signals a larger problem with water or moisture. Simply cleaning the property won’t fix the issue if the source of moisture isn’t addressed.
Real Property Management Bella provides professional services to protect your Canyon Lake rental property from mold and mildew. Contact us or call 951-916-4329 today for more information.
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