Minnesota Department of Health

The most practical way to find a mold problem is to simply use your eyes and nose to find signs of excess moisture and mold growth. If you see or smell mold, you should assume that a problem exists.

Look for signs of moisture or mold

• Mold can have a cottony, velvety, granular or leathery texture
• The color of mold can vary from white, gray, brown, black, green or other colors
• Mold damage may look like discoloration or staining on the surface of building materials or furnishings
• Noticeable mold odors are described as musty or earthly

Look for signs of water damage or excess moisture

• Water leaks
• Standing water
• Water stains
• Condensation problems

Search behind and underneath furnishings, stored items, and building materials (For example, under carpet and pad, wallpaper, vinyl flooring, sink cabinets, or dry wall)

• MDH Guidelines for Selecting an Indoor Air Quality Consultant
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Mold
• Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) Mold
• University of Minnesota Extension Service Moisture in Basements: Causes and Solutions