Resources and Guidance to Help You Protect and Care for Your Property

Mold Education & Prevention

Early Signs of Mold

Mold Prevention Tips

• Visible Discoloration — New dark, green, brown, gray, or white spots, streaks, or patches appearing on surfaces.

• Peeling Paint — Paint that bubbles, flakes, blisters, or separates from the surface.

• Warped Materials — Swollen, buckled, or distorted drywall, wood, flooring, or other materials.

• Soft or Spongy Surfaces — Walls, floors, or other materials that feel unusually soft, weakened, or unstable.

• Unexplained Allergic Reactions — New or recurring irritation such as sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, or throat irritation when spending time in a particular area.

• Unusual Indoor Air Quality — A room that consistently feels stuffy, irritating, or noticeably different from the rest of the property.

• Window Frame Damage — Swelling, deterioration, staining, or other unusual changes around window frames.

• Damaged Grout — Grout that becomes unusually dark, deteriorated, or difficult to keep clean in bathrooms or other tiled areas.

• Unusual Dust Buildup — Certain areas repeatedly collect excessive dust or debris despite regular cleaning.

• Material Crumbling — Building materials beginning to crumble, break apart, or deteriorate without an obvious cause.

• Ceiling Abnormalities — Sagging, bubbling, cracking, or other unusual changes developing on ceiling surfaces.

• Hidden Area Changes — Unusual changes discovered behind cabinets, furniture, appliances, or other areas that are not regularly visible.

• Recurring Surface Growth — Unwanted growth repeatedly returning on the same surface after normal cleaning.

• Persistent Cleaning Issues — Certain surfaces repeatedly develop buildup or residue that is difficult to remove with normal cleaning.

• Control Humidity — Keep indoor humidity below 60%, ideally between 30% and 50%.

• Fix Leaks Quickly — Repair plumbing, roof, and appliance leaks as soon as possible.

• Check for Hidden Moisture — Inspect basements, crawl spaces, attics, and areas around plumbing for signs of dampness.

• Improve Ventilation & Airflow — Use exhaust fans in kitchens, and maintain airflow around furniture and enclosed areas.

• Clean & Maintain Gutters — Keep gutters and downspouts clear to direct water away from your property.

• Watch for Condensation — Wipe moisture from windows, pipes, and other cold surfaces.

• Keep Bathrooms Dry — Run the exhaust fan during and after showers, wipe down wet surfaces, and allow the room to dry.

• Dry Wet Areas Promptly — Dry spills, wet floors, damp carpets, towels, and other moisture-affected materials quickly. Address larger water damage as soon as possible.

• Inspect Windows, Doors & Seals — Check frames, seals, and caulking for gaps, water intrusion, cracks, or deterioration.

• Check Under Appliances — Inspect around refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters for hidden leaks.

• Maintain HVAC Systems — Replace filters regularly and keep drain lines, pans, and components clean.

• Protect Your Foundation — Make sure the ground slopes away from your property to direct water away from the foundation.

• Store Items Properly — Keep boxes, furniture, and other belongings off floors and away from areas prone to moisture.

• Keep Fabrics Clean & Dry — Wash and thoroughly dry curtains, rugs, bath mats, and other washable fabrics that can retain moisture.