Toxic mold can exist unbeknownst to you anywhere where moisture is present. Kitchens, bathrooms and sinks are not the only breeding ground for the many types of toxic molds; moisture retained in air ducts, carpeting, flooring and unattended-to leaks in any area of a home, school or office building can be a breeding ground for aspergillus, chaetomium and pencillium molds and the dreaded stachybotrys chatram, also known as black mold, which is linked to multiple adverse health conditions. Injuries caused by toxic mold can many times are covered by premises liability laws.

Toxic Mold Side Effects Toxic black mold has been the subject of much media attention due to its connection to increased incidences of asthma, sinus infections and even brain damage in those exposed to it over time. Toxicity is caused by chemicals produced by the mold called mycotoxins and side effects can include rashes, seizures, severe fatigue, unusual bleeding and respiratory problems. Individuals with allergies may experience eye, nose and throat irritation, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing or wheezing upon exposure to toxic mold.

There are 100,000 different kinds of mold and only a few are toxic but if your home or office is one of the 2 to 5% infected with stachybotrys chatram, the black mold responsible for most health problems, then is important that you take action to eradicate the mold or the situation causing it and seek the counsel of a personal injury attorney at once.

Actions to take Against Toxic Mold If you suspect your home or office has infested with toxic mold then you must first have your home thoroughly inspected by a professional for verification. If the mold is indeed present then this inspection should be followed up with a thorough professional home treatment to eliminate all mold growth. Plumbing leaks must be fixed, exhaust fans must be installed in kitchens and bathrooms and dehumidifiers should be placed in any room or area that regularly collects moisture. It is also advisable to keep windows open to increase air circulation on a regular basis.

If you've been exposed to toxic mold outside of your home or suspect your home exposure was due to someone else's negligent behavior then it is important to contact a personal injury attorney specializing in cases of toxic mold exposure. It may be that previous homeowners, building contractors, roofers or building material manufacturers and distributors were derelict in their duties to maintain levels of safety and provide adequate information on the state and condition of the home or materials. These individuals should be held responsible for their actions or inaction. An insurance claim or lawsuit may be necessary to regain compensation for the costs of medical testing and treatment and mold eradication. The damages recovered will vary depending on the severity of the personal suffering caused by the toxic mold.