Toxic mold problems at home and at the commercial buildings increase considerably during the past years and most of these problems lead in filing of legal claims. The lawyers and experts who handle the mold-associated claims provide different reasons of the increase which include the increase in the focus on making building airtight, faulty building approaches and materials, the increasingly complex designs of the buildings, and quick construction.

There are many different strains from “black mold” and there are those strains that cause health problems to the residents and occupants at workplaces, at homes and in businesses. If you believe you have been exposed to toxic mold wherever you are, you can find and contact an attorney who specializes in toxic mold-related claims and issues, and discuss with him/her your case to protect your legal rights.

Common Causes of Mold in the Homes and Buildings

Mold spores are anywhere in the natural settings where they enter the homes and commercial buildings by the open doors and windows, through the pets, or being attached to people. When the spores are already in the home or building, it indicates that there is plenty of moisture, a food source, and a specific temperature range that cause them to grow.

Moisture infiltration is the major cause of the molds in the buildings. The moisture can come from different sources and most of the modern homes and buildings are airtight. While this is good for efficiency purposes, this is not good for permitting the structure to dry. When mold gets in through the faulty windows, roof, pipe leakages, and other sources, the water will not be able to evaporate. Mold thrives where there is a high degree of moisture on wet materials like insulation, carpeting, wood, and ceiling tiles.

Warning Signs of Mold Growth

There are several types of warning signs that indicate that there is a need to investigate and check the house or a building for probable infestation of molds. It is recommended that an earlier investigation should be done so that possible damages and adverse health risks due to exposure of molds can be reduced or prevent.

Here are certain warning signs that may show that there is presence of toxic mold:

• Discoloration or water stains indoors facing the walls or ceilings
• Discoloration or water stains outdoors facing the walls
• “Musty” smell
• Visible growth of the molds
• Places where there are standing water or condensation on the floors, window sills, or walls.

Types of Molds

There are several kinds of molds that can grow at home or at commercial buildings where some sources state that there may be more than 100,000 various species. There are certain mold species that are considered harmless and there are others that can cause severe health effects.

Common types of molds that can be found in the houses and commercial buildings are:

• Aspergillus
• Alternaria
• Cladosporium
• Penicillium
• Stachybotrys atra

Why Mold is Harmful to People?

Some molds generate volatile organic compounds or VOC as toxic byproducts of their metabolism. VOC evaporate at room temperature and when a person smells the “musty” odor, he/she actually smells the VOC that may cause adverse health effects in some people. Unlike VOC, toxins do not easily evaporate and others are considered very harmful to people. All molds must be considered toxic for health conditions and the presence of molds should be investigated, cleaned, and/or eliminated.

Diseases from Mold Exposure

The following are common diseases related to mold exposure are:

• Respiratory problems
• Worsening of allergies
• Worsening of asthma problems
• Nasal and sinus congestion
• Burning and watering eyes
• Skin irritation
• Headaches
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough

Who Is At Risk From Mold Exposure?

Basically, people are at risks of diseases from the mold exposure when they

• Have allergies
• Have diseases or health conditions that weaken the immune defenses
• Have lung problems
• Are elderly
• Are young children

Obtaining Legal Assistance

Mold grows when there is excess moisture at home and at commercial building. Ill health effects and the cleanup costs after mold exposure can be taxing and expensive. If you find out that there are mold problems in your houses, workplaces, or businesses, you can find and contact an attorney immediately to discuss with him/her your case and see your legal options. Discuss this immediately with the lawyer will help you prepare for the evidence related to toxic mold case and know the time limit in your home state in which you have to file your lawsuit to claim damages.