MOLD

Molds are simple, microscopic organisms, present virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Molds, along with mushroom and yeast, are fungi and are needed to break down dead material and recycle nutrients in the environment. For molds to grow and reproduce, they only a food source – any organic material, such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt – and moisture. Because molds by digesting the organic material, they gradually destroy whatever they grow on. Molds growth on surfaces can often be seen in the form of discoloration, frequently green, grey, brown, or black but also white and other colors. Molds release countless tiny, lightweight spores, which travel the air.

For more information about mold or its effect on your health, you can contact your Realtor to obtain a copy of Homeowners Guide to Earthquake Safety & Environmental Hazards or check the following publications:

Mold in My Home: What Do I Do?
This document is available on the internet, or no cost from:
California Department of Health Services
Indoor Air Quality Section
2151 Berkeley Way (EHLB)
Tel: 510-540-2476
www.dhs-iaq.ca.gov

Misinterpretation of Stachybotrys Serology
These documents available on the internet or no cost from:
California Department of Health Services
Environmental Health Investigation Branch
1515 Clay Street, Suite 1700
Oakland, CA 94612
Tel: 510-622-4500
www.dhs.ca.gov/ehib/

General Information Molds, Toxic Molds, and Indoor Air Quality
This document is available on the internet at:
www.cal-iaq.org/MOLD

Biological Pollutants in Your Home
This document is available at no cost from:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
IAQ Information Clearinghouse
Tel: 800-438-4318
www.epa.gov

Repairing Your Flooded Home
This publication is available on the internet or no cost from:
American Red Cross
8928 Volunteer Lane
Sacramento, CA 95826
Tel: 916-368-3131
www.redcross.org

For local assistance, contact your county or city
Department of Health, Housing, or Environmental Health