Maggie's Farm

Mold is unavoidable as it is everywhere, especially outdoors. There are a few types of mold that are harmful to humans but they are rare. Having too much mold in buildings is caused by moisture problems, like leaks and poor venting.

From Wiki...Molds are ubiquitous in nature, and mold spores are a common component of household and workplace dust. However, when mold spores are present in large quantities, they can present a health hazard to humans, potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Some molds also produce mycotoxins that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. Exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological problems and in some cases death. Prolonged exposure, e.g. daily workplace exposure, can be particularly harmful. The term toxic mold refers to molds that produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, and not to all molds in general.

I think mold is becoming like the the new asbestos for lawyers and contractors, i.e., a potential cash machine. O/T but, ever wonder how many people have died in fires because of asbestos being banned? It is my understanding that there is nothing that is as effective a fire retarder as asbestos. I have read speculation about the World Trade Center and the space shuttle explosions, to name a few famous instances, where asbestos could have made a big difference. The industry was almost completely shut down and much of the asbestos lawsuit money has gone to people who have never been ill. From Wiki..."The American Bar Association states that a growing number of claimants do not, and may never, suffer from asbestos illness. Because of the fear of a running statute of limitations, many people file claims who are not presently ill, but have had X-rays that show changes 'consistent with' asbestos disease.