Solving the problem (Locating the source)

While investigating remember, that mold generally needs a moisture source and a food source to survive. Poorly configured landscape irrigation or inadequate drainage outside the building can result in moisture inside the building. This can lead to subsequent mold growth.

• Carpets can get moldy – check them out.
• Plastic “carpet savers” can lock in moisture, where other areas have a chance to dry out.
• Plants and moss in plants can be a good location for mold to grow.
• Check anywhere there’s been a pipe burst or water leak – even long after it’s been repaired.
• The air conditioning systems may be contaminated with mold. This can be a result of various conditions, such as overflowing drain pans, condensation blowing off the coils onto internal insulation or water incursion into the ducts (leaking rooftop ducts) to name a few.
• The filters in the HVAC system don’t fit correctly, leaving gaps and allowing contaminants into the system.
• The outside air intake for the HVAC system is located near a bathroom exhaust or other undesirable locations. Not enough outside (fresh) air. Fresh air is needed to dilute the contaminants typically found within a building.
• HVAC system not balanced, e.g. too much or not enough air being delivered to a specific location.
• HVAC system has been contaminated. This can be a result of outside sources or conditions within the system.