In addition to damaging walls, ceilings, cabinets, and flooring, mold can have both short-term and long-term effects on your health. Some can be very serious, effecting the eyes, lungs, and other internal organs.

While it is not possible to eliminate all mold spores, the best way to prevent uncontrolled microbial growth is to control indoor moisture. Following is a mold prevention checklist: They are not in any particular order:

• Other than your kitchen and bathrooms, keep the remainder of your home dry. This includes the laundry room or area;
• Install and use extractor fans in the kitchen, laundry room or area, and all bathrooms;
• Avoid using rugs in bathrooms. Floormats should be dried after use;
• Keep windows open whenever possible to allow circulating air;
• When the weather is humid, use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to remove moisture from the interior air;
• Make certain that sheets, pillow cases, towels, and clothing are completely dry before storing;
• Regularly inspect indoor plumbing fixtures for leaks;
• Have your clothes dryer vent inspected and cleaned at least once every year and make certain it vents to the outside;
• Do not overwater any indoor plants;
• Air out all closets and clothes drawers at least weekly;
• Remove kitchen and bathroom trash daily in order to minimize moisture;
• Make certain that all outdoor sprinklers are not spraying against the house;
• Make certain that all outdoor garden and patio areas slope away from the house;
• Make certain that all weep screeds are at least two inches above grade and are unobstructed;
• Check for condensation or moisture on windows and walls. Investigate the reason and eliminate the cause;
• Make certain that any air conditioning condensation lines that run through the house are in good condition and not leaking;
• Make certain that refrigerator and washing machine lines are not leaking and are in good condition;
• Clean and empty refrigerator drip pans;
• Eliminate or minimize carpeting since it traps mold spores.
• If you follow the checklist above, the chances of experiencing a mold infestation in your house will be reduced.