Tribal IAQ Resource Directory: Mold and Moisture

Overview

The key to mold control is moisture control. To prevent mold from growing, it is important to find the water source and fix the problem. Dry the area quickly, within 24-48 hours if possible. Remove bulk water, and use fans and dehumidifiers to speed drying, and/or open doors and windows if outdoor conditions allow. Keep the humidity levels below 60% to prevent the mold from growing. Once the area is dry, it is important to clean and remove the mold. Clean the mold off hard surfaces using a mild detergent and water. It is not recommended to use biocides (e.g. bleach) to remove mold. Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they can’t be cleaned and dried. When cleaning mold, it is important to use personal protective equipment including gloves, an N-95 respirator, and goggles.

IAQ Tip:

Major mold events, or mold areas larger than 10 square feet may require professional remediation.

First, address moisture problems...

• Promptly fix the source of any water problems or leaks.
• Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, maintain indoor humidity below 60% (ideally between 30-50%) relative humidity.

Then, address the mold...

• Clean mold off of hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Items that soaked up water may need to be discarded.

Resources

 Tribal Healthy Homes Network Mold Page
A resource page curated specifically for Tbribal audiences. It features extensive resources for policymakers, community leaders, and the general public, including a webinar on “Mold in Tribal Housing – A Dialogue about Prevention, Funding and Cold Climate Issues.”

 Tribal Mold Webinars
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals presents an in-depth webinar series with the Chocktaw Nation on mold, moisture, and remediation.

 EPA’s Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home
A shareable resource for homeowners and renters on how to clean up mold growth and prevent future mold problems in the home.

Policy Highlight:

Tulalip Tribes Housing Department Mold and Mildew Policy Tribal policy example with tenant obligations and guidelines to prevent and quickly remediate any mold or mildew problems.

Tribal Healthy Homes Network Mold Policy Guide
A resource guide from the Tribal Healthy Homes Network that gives a basis of policy approaches for mold prevention, assessment, and abatement to prevent mold in Tribal buildings.

  EPA’s Mold Page
The hub for all of EPA’s mold and moisture resources.

 EPA’s Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings
A detailed resource for leaders and managers of public buildings to help promote and maintain mold-free environments.

 EPA’s Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance
A detailed resource for anyone who designs, builds, operates or maintains buildings and heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. It provides practical guidance on how to control moisture in buildings.

  CDC’s Mold Page
Information on the health effects of mold exposure and how to prevent, safely clean up, and control mold. This webpage also includes a homeowners and renters guide to mold cleanup after disasters. 

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