Is it okay to live in a house with black mold?

Author: Natalie Pagac  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Black mold can cause health problems. As such, it is not advisable to be in a house with black mold. If a person must stay in a house with black mold, they should try to seal off any areas where black mold is present to reduce contact with it.

What happens if you stay in a house with black mold?

Black mold is a fungus that may cause your immune system to react. Common symptoms include sneezing, coughing, congestion and eye irritation. It rarely causes serious illness or death but may worsen asthma symptoms.

How long is it safe to live in a house with mold?

Generally, a person can stay in a moldy home for years, though some people could feel extremely uncomfortable.

What are the side effects of living in a house with mold?

Although symptoms can vary, the most common symptoms seen in people exposed to mold indoors include:
  • Nasal and sinus congestion.
  • Eye irritation, such as itchy, red, watery eyes.
  • Wheezing and difficulty breathing.
  • Cough.
  • Throat irritation.
  • Skin irritation, such as a rash.
  • Headache.

How long does it take to get sick from living with mold?

How long does it take for mold to make you sick? That depends on the person and how much mold they've been exposed to. If you're very sensitive to mold, you may experience congestion and a cough as soon as you're exposed. Others may not notice if there's a small amount of mold.

Mold Toxicity: The Effects of Living in a House with Mold

How to tell if your house is toxic?

If you suspect your asthma worsens or is more severe than usual, contact your doctor or medical professional.
  1. Bad Smells In The Home. When there's a bad smell in the home, you can tell. ...
  2. Peeling Wallpaper. ...
  3. Spots On The Wall. ...
  4. Bad Allergies Won't Go Away. ...
  5. Visible Mold Growth. ...
  6. Past Water Damage.

Is it bad to sleep in a room with mold?

One of the most common consequences of sleeping in a room with mould is respiratory distress. Mould spores, which are released into the air, can be inhaled while you sleep. This can lead to various respiratory issues, including coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Does house insurance cover mold?

Homeowners insurance doesn't usually cover mold damage or removal unless it's the result of a covered peril. If the mold in your residence was caused by something sudden or accidental, such as a bursting pipe or some other covered incident on your policy, you may be protected.

Does black mold ever go away?

Mould is a living organism, built to be resistant to nature, so the short answer is no, mould will not go away on its own accord. It is also highly unlikely that it would even become 'extinct'. There are two different stages of mould, both of which are harmful to us if left alone.

Should I buy a house with black mold?

There are some other, less common types too, the most well-known being Stachybotrys chartarum, or “black mold.” Black mold is rare because it needs constant heavy moisture for growth. However, this is an incredibly toxic mold and should be removed before moving into a home.

Can mold behind walls make you sick?

It irritates the nose and throat, which can lead to both sneezing and coughing as your body tries to get rid of the irritant. Inhaling mold spores can also trigger coughing in people with allergies or an asthma attack, for those with asthma.

What time of year is mold worse?

Mold thrives in warm, humid conditions, making weather a significant factor. During mold season, which spans from early spring to mid-fall, the combination of higher temperatures and increased moisture in the air creates an ideal environment for mold spores to germinate and spread.

Can I treat black mold myself?

For a natural solution to getting rid of black mold, combine one part baking soda with five parts distilled white vinegar and five parts water in a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can use a chemical-based mold and mildew remover, all-purpose cleaners, bleach or dish soap.

Is it safe to live in a house with mold remediation?

Mold remediation itself is not toxic, but some chemicals used in the process can be. Professionals use protective gear and ensure the area is well-ventilated to mitigate risks, but occupants should stay away from the remediation area until it's declared safe.

How much does it cost to get rid of black mold?

Mold remediation costs $2,365 on average, but it can cost between $375 and $7,000, depending on location, type, and size of infestation. Mold removal often requires replacing or significantly renovating your home's materials, making the costs tricky to calculate.

How do I permanently get rid of mold in my house?

Spray the area with a mixture of water and vinegar - half water, half vinegar. Next, scrub to remove all traces of the mold. For removal of black and white mold, spray the area with the half water and half vinegar solution.

What are symptoms of black mold exposure?

If they come into contact with mold, they can experience symptoms such as :
  • a runny or blocked nose.
  • watery, red eyes.
  • a dry cough.
  • skin rashes.
  • a sore throat.
  • sinusitis.
  • wheezing.

Who pays for mold remediation?

If there is a covered condition that the homeowner's insurance policy covers that causes mold, then the insurance company will cover mold remediation. Excess water from a natural cause like a roof leaking after a rain storm is usually covered by a homeowners insurance policy.

Does opening windows help with mold?

Mould thrives in damp areas such as windows, where there is dust, dirt or organic material, that's why the number one way to reduce mould is to open your windows regularly. By opening the windows at least once a day, this allows the mould spores to escape and lets patches of moisture dry out.

What are the 10 warning signs of mold toxicity?

However, some common signs that may indicate mold exposure include: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, nasal congestion, and frequent sinus infections. Rashes, itching, burning sensations, and persistent skin irritation.

How long does it take to get sick from mold exposure?

According to the CDC, people usually experience their first symptoms within 2 to 9 hours of their first exposure. On the other hand, some people could go for weeks or months before feeling sick if their exposure is limited enough. This is why it is also important to check damp, dark areas of your home for mold.

How to tell if your house is making you sick?

If you're experiencing allergies, persistent headaches, chronic fatigue, or respiratory issues, it could be a sign that your house is making you sick.

Can you have mold in your house and not see it?

Can you have mold in your house and not see it? Yes, mold spores are tiny and invisible to the naked eye. They may be floating around your home without you knowing and grow on dark and damp surfaces where you're not expecting them to.

Is living in a dirty house unhealthy?

In severe cases, exposure to these triggers can lead to an asthma attack or the development of an allergy. Furthermore, a dirty home can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses, causing infections. Skin infections. our body's largest organ, your skin, is also vulnerable to disease.

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