What is mould?

Some people are more sensitive to mould, like children, Elders, people with asthma or severe allergies, and people with a weakened immune system. 

Everyone’s sensitivity is different. 

Symptoms can include:

• Irritated eyes, nose, and throat
• Coughing and phlegm build-up
• Wheezing and shortness of breath
• Worsening of asthma symptoms
• Other allergic reactions

Mould can lead to serious lung infections in people who have weakened immune systems due to cancers like leukemia, certain medications, HIV infection, or having had an organ transplant. 

If you think your health issues are connected to mould, talk to a doctor about it.

Mould is commonly found in damp areas, such as:

• Basements
• Under or behind stored items that might have gotten damp
• Bathrooms (under the sink, around the bath and shower)
• Windowsills, drywall near windows
• Ceilings

If there’s been water damage, check damp areas. 

You don’t need fancy tests to find mould. You don’t have to measure how much mould is in the air or identify its specific type. Instead, focus on finding it, cleaning it, and fixing moisture issues.

Visible Clues: 

• Stains or discoloration. Look for odd marks on floors, walls, windows, ceilings, carpets, fabrics, and closets. Spots and discoloration can be green, black, brown, yellow.
• Peeling paint may be a sign of moisture damage, which can lead to mould growing.

Musty Odor: 

• If you notice a damp, earthy smell, it could be mould.