Leaks · Burst pipes · Overflows
Mold after water damage: beat the 24 to 48 hour window
The EPA says that if wet materials are dried within 24 to 48 hours of a leak, in most cases mold won't grow. Once that window passes, assume hidden materials need checking.
Right after a leak
When to bring in professionals
The EPA recommends professional guidance when there's been a lot of water damage or mold covers more than about 10 square feet, and professional help whenever the water was sewage or otherwise contaminated. It also advises against running an HVAC system you suspect is contaminated, since it can spread mold through the building.
Signs mold has started
- A musty smell days after the leak.
- Staining, bubbling paint, or soft drywall along the bottom of walls.
- Cupping or lifting floors, or a damp smell from cabinets.
A note on insurance
Coverage depends on your policy and the cause. Mold from a sudden covered event, like a burst pipe, is treated very differently from mold caused by a long-term leak or humidity. Read your policy, report the loss promptly, and keep records of everything.
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