Toxic Black Mold in Newport Beach and Orange County
What Causes Toxic Mold
The cause of most toxic mold in Orange County homes is a combination of moist conditions and the ready availability of places where mold can grow. Unfortunately, most American homes are full of such places, including insulation, drywall, carpet, upholstery, ceiling tiles, and wood; once these types of materials get wet, they are the perfect breeding ground for toxic black mold. Newport Beach and other Orange County-area homes are no exception; even though rain is infrequent, the high volume of water caused by even one storm may be enough to create water damage and subsequent mold growth.
Once toxic black mold has taken hold in a home, it is exceedingly difficult to remove it all. Even though mold is cleaned from visible surfaces, inaccessible areas may continue to harbor the mold. The only way to clean porous materials such as ceiling tiles and drywall is a costly removal and replacement system. Generally speaking, if any mold is left behind, there is a good chance that it will grow back.
If left unchecked and untreated, toxic black mold in an Orange County home can have devastating effects, from the cost of cleaning and sterilizing all surfaces to severe health problems.
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How Toxic Mold May Affect You
Although anyone may experience health issues after exposure to toxic mold, the people at highest risk for developing symptoms are infants, the elderly, those with weak immune systems, and those with an established respiratory problem such as asthma or allergies. Below are some common symptoms to watch for if you suspect an infestation of toxic black mold in your Newport Beach home:
- Respiratory problems, such as wheezing, and difficulty in breathing
- Nasal and sinus congestion, and/or irritation
- Eyes experience burning, watering, reddening, blurriness, light sensitivity
- Hacking or dry cough, often accompanied by a sore throat
- Skin irritation
- Headaches and possible fever
- Aches and pains
Toxic mold has also been linked to such alarming conditions as memory loss, mood changes, and cancer. In many cases, people do not become aware that they are being exposed to toxic black mold until several years have passed and symptoms have become severe. If you believe that you have had health problems due to exposure to toxic mold, contact the Roberts Law Firm today.
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Where Toxic Mold Is Found
Keeping in mind that both moisture and a favorable growth area are needed by toxic mold, Orange County homeowners should be especially watchful for mold in kitchens and bathrooms. However, since common building materials like wood and drywall are also very attractive to mold, people should undertake a careful inspection of their property. Some common places to check include:
- Carpeting
- Humidifiers
- Areas that frequently leak or flood
- Clotheslines or dryers with indoor vents
- Stoves and other combustion appliances that do not exhaust outdoors
- Houseplants
- Basements and crawl spaces
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Toxic Mold Prevention Methods
As concern grows about the effect of toxic black mold, Orange County homeowners must take drastic steps to control the growth of such mold infestations. The most effective way to stem the growth of toxic black mold in your Orange County-area home is to reduce and control the amount of moisture in your home, as many kinds of mold cannot survive in low humidity. You can help prevent the spread of mold by:
- Using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture
- Keeping windows open when possible to circulate air
- Using fans in the bathroom and kitchen
- Insulating cold surfaces that can attract moisture
- Fixing plumbing leaks immediately
If you or a Toxic Mold Lawyers Southern Californiad one has become ill due to toxic black mold in Newport Beach or elsewhere in Orange County, please do not hesitate to contact our office today!
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Who Is Responsible if You Find Mold
Landlords
If you are a renter and find mold, it is the responsibility of your landlord to clean up the mold and fix the source of the water intrusion feeding the growth of the mold. If your landlord ignores the problem, and you suffer illness due to the mold, the landlord may be held liable for your injuries, emotional distress and relocation costs.
Homeowners Associations
If you own a condominium or attached town house, often times your CC&Rs provide that the HOA is responsible for the care, maintenance and repair of outside walls, roofs, and common areas such as walkways. If the HOA fails to correct the source of water intrusion then it may be held liable for your injuries, emotional distress and relocation costs.
Sellers of Homes
If you recently purchased a home, and discover hidden mold that appears to have been known to the seller, but not disclosed during escrow, then the seller, seller’s agent, and seller’s broker may be held liable for your injuries, emotional distress and relocation costs.
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If you want to learn more about toxic black mold, contact The Roberts Law Firm in Newport Beach. We welcome clients from all over Orange County.
The Roberts Law Firm
660 Newport Center Dr,
Suite 400
Newport Beach, California 92660
Toll-Free: 800.349.5570
Phone: 949.719.6885
Fax: 949.719.6881 |
