First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, just like mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is toxic to people is rare in the fungus world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't harmful. However, some are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be cleaned up and completely removed.

That means calling a mold damage repair company is almost always a good idea. This is because if you see mold, there is probably more trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.

Before you schedule an appointment with any expert, check that they are certified properly and that they are approved by trade organizations such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to begin, and you can check for approval by groups such as as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.

You need to mitigate any fungal growth you find to prevent further mold damage, and do it now. If you don't, parasitic fungi will keep eating on your structure and will destroy your possessions. Some molds, those that release toxic spores, can also cause major health risks ranging from neurological damage to respiratory and mold-related infections and generally poor health. Mold can be particularly dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.