Mold after water damage: signs, risks and when to call a professional

Guide for homeowners

Illustration.

Mold needs moisture to grow. After a leak or flood, wet drywall, carpet pads and wood can start growing mold within 24 to 48 hours if they are not dried properly.

Warning signs

• A musty or earthy smell that does not go away
• Dark spots or staining on walls, ceilings or grout
• Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper near a past leak
• Warped baseboards or soft drywall

Why not just clean it yourself?

Small spots on hard surfaces can often be cleaned. But visible mold is frequently only part of the problem. Scrubbing or sanding can spread spores, and painting over mold does not stop it. If the moisture source remains, it comes back.

When an inspection makes sense

Consider a professional inspection if the affected area is larger than a few square feet, if you had water damage that was not dried quickly, if the smell persists, or if anyone in the home has breathing problems.

What remediation usually involves

A remediation company finds and fixes the moisture source, contains the area, removes affected materials, cleans and dries the structure, and checks moisture levels afterwards.