The Health Hazards of Black Mold Exposure: What Every Property Owner Should Know
Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is a toxic mold species that thrives in areas of excessive moisture or water damage. Often hidden behind walls, under floors, or inside HVAC systems, black mold releases spores and mycotoxins that can lead to significant health issues—particularly when exposure occurs over extended periods.
At Corbell Projects, we provide licensed mold assessment and remediation services across Central Florida. With the support of scientific research and CDC guidelines, we aim to educate property owners and managers about the true risks of mold exposure and the importance of professional intervention.
CDC Data: What the Research Shows
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mold facts and statistics:
Over 70% of U.S. homes have some level of mold.
Indoor mold is linked to increased risk of upper respiratory symptoms, particularly in people with asthma, allergies, or chronic lung conditions.
Children living in mold-contaminated environments are more likely to develop asthma or respiratory illnesses.
Certain molds, including black mold, produce mycotoxins—toxic compounds that can be harmful when inhaled or ingested.
These findings reinforce the importance of proper mold detection and licensed remediation to maintain a safe living and working environment.
Common Health Symptoms of Black Mold Exposure
Prolonged or repeated exposure to black mold may cause the following health issues:
Respiratory Effects: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or asthma attacks
Irritation: Itchy skin, red or watery eyes, nosebleeds, or throat irritation
Neurological Effects: Fatigue, headaches, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating
Allergic Reactions: Sneezing, congestion, and skin rashes
Individuals with compromised immune systems, young children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
Where Does Black Mold Grow?
Final Toughts: Black mold requires moisture, darkness, and organic material to thrive. Common locations include:
Behind walls near leaking pipes or roofs
Beneath carpets or vinyl flooring in water-damaged areas
Inside HVAC ducts or near A/C units with drainage issues
Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms with high humidity
Attics, crawlspaces, or basements with inadequate ventilation
Because it often grows out of sight, mold can remain undetected for months—causing slow and persistent damage to both health and property.
Why Choose Licensed Mold Remediation:
DIY cleanup can disturb mold spores, making the problem worse. At Corbell Projects, we follow a licensed and insured remediation protocol that includes:
- Professional Mold Inspection and Certified Air Quality Testing
- Safe Containment and Removal of contaminated materials
- EPA-compliant Antimicrobial Treatments
- Source Moisture Identification and Correction Guidance
- Comprehensive Assessment Reports and Remediation Clearance
Our team holds Florida state licenses for both Mold Assessment (MRSA5381) and Mold Remediation (MRSR5403), and we are certified by the IICRC in Water Damage Restoration (WRT #70214938).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is black mold and why is it dangerous?
Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is a toxic fungus commonly found in damp or water-damaged areas. It produces mycotoxins, which can be harmful when inhaled or ingested, leading to respiratory and neurological symptoms—especially in children, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems.
2. What are the common symptoms of black mold exposure?
Symptoms may include chronic coughing, sneezing, sinus congestion, eye irritation, skin rashes, fatigue, headaches, and in severe cases, memory issues or mood changes. Individuals with asthma or allergies may experience worsened symptoms.
3. How do I know if I have black mold in my property?
You may notice a musty odor, visible dark spots on walls or ceilings, or increased respiratory symptoms. However, mold often grows in hidden areas such as behind drywall or under flooring. A certified mold assessment and air quality test is the most accurate way to detect its presence.
4. Can I remove black mold myself?
DIY removal is not recommended for black mold, especially in larger or concealed infestations. Improper cleaning can release spores into the air, spreading contamination. Professional remediation ensures safe containment, removal, and treatment in compliance with state and EPA guidelines.
5. How long does professional mold remediation take?
Most remediation projects are completed within 1 to 3 days, depending on the severity and size of the affected area. This includes inspection, containment, removal, sanitation, and post-remediation verification.
6. What does a certified mold assessment include?
Our standard mold assessment includes:
A visual inspection by a licensed Mold Assessor
Indoor air quality sampling (interior and exterior)
Surface sample collection
A certified lab report with professional findings and recommendations
Results are typically delivered within 5 business days.
7. Is mold covered by insurance?
Coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and policy type. Some homeowners' policies cover mold remediation if the mold is caused by a covered water damage event (e.g., a burst pipe). We recommend reviewing your policy or contacting your insurer directly.
8. How can I prevent mold from returning?
Preventative steps include:
Fixing leaks promptly
Using dehumidifiers in humid areas
Ensuring proper ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and attics
Scheduling regular inspections if you’ve had prior water damage
9. Why choose Corbell Projects for mold remediation?
Corbell Projects is fully licensed and insured in Florida for Mold Assessment (MRSA5381) and Mold Remediation (MRSR5403), with IICRC-certified technicians in Water Damage Restoration. We offer professional, reliable, and compliant remediation services backed by science and experience.