How can mold affect my family's health?
Most types of mold that are routinely encountered are not hazardous to humans. However, too much exposure to mold and mold damage may cause or worsen conditions such as asthma, hay fever, or other allergies. The most common symptoms of overexposure are cough, congestion, runny nose, eye irritation, and aggravation of asthma. Depending on the amount of exposure and a person's individual vulnerability, more serious health effects - such as fevers and breathing problems can occur.

How can I be exposed to mold?
When moldy material becomes damaged or disturbed, spores (reproductive bodies similar to seeds) can be released into the air. Exposure can occur if people inhale the spores, directly handle moldy materials, or accidentally ingest it. Also, mold can sometimes produce chemicals called mycotoxins which may cause illness in people sensitive to them. Large exposures are typically associated with certain occupations (i.e., agricultural work). If you think you are being exposed to mold in your home, contact an attorney who is knowledgeable of toxic mold.

How does mold grow?
All molds need water to grow. Florida mold can grow almost anywhere there is water damage, high humidity, or dampness. Most often molds are confined to areas near the source of water. Removing the source of moisture - such as through repairs or dehumidification - is critical to preventing mold growth and mold damage claims.

What is Stachybotrys chartarum?
Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra) is a type of mold that has been associated with health effects in people. It is a greenish-black mold that can grow on materials with a high cellulose content - such as drywall sheetrock, dropped ceiling tiles, and wood - that become chronically moist or water-damaged, due to excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, or flooding.

How can I tell if Stachybotrys chartarum is present in my home?
Many molds are black in appearance but are not Stachybotrys. For example, the black mold commonly found between bathroom tiles is not Stachybotrys. Stachybotrys can be positively identified only by specially trained professionals (e.g., mycologists) through a microscopic exam. If you think you have toxic mold in your home, contact a mold lawyer today.

How can Stachybotrys chartarum affect your health?
Typically, indoor air levels of Stachybotrys are low; however, as with other types of mold, at higher levels health effects can occur. These include allergic rhinitis (cold-like symptoms), dermatitis (rashes), sinusitis, conjunctivitis, and aggravation of asthma. Some related symptoms are more general - such as inability to concentrate and fatigue. Usually, symptoms disappear after the contamination is removed.

There has been some evidence linking Stachybotrys with pulmonary hemosiderosis in infants who are generally less than six months old. Pulmonary hemosiderosis is an uncommon condition that results from bleeding in the lungs. In studied cases of pulmonary hemosiderosis, the exposure to Stachybotrys came from highly contaminated dwellings, where the infants were continually exposed over a long period of time.

Will my health or my child’s health be affected, and should we see a physician?
If you believe that you or your children have symptoms that you suspect are caused by exposure to mold, you should see a physician immediately; preferably a physician who is knowledgeable in the area of toxic mold.

Is my residence or workplace contaminated by Toxic Mold?
Mold growth is promoted by moist environments. Buildings that have leaks or other moisture problems will be susceptible to mold contamination. Many commercial buildings and residential dwellings are built very tight for energy conservation and have an inadequate fresh air supply causing mold spores and mycotoxins to become concentrated in the air.

Contaminated buildings may have a stale, musty odor. In addition, mold can sometimes be seen growing on baseboards, air vents, ceiling tiles or other places especially where moisture accumulates. However, many times mold will grow within the walls and cannot be seen. However this invisible contaminate may release spores and mycotoxins into the indoor air.

Residents who occupy contaminated buildings may experience myriad symptoms. Among them: itchy eyes, rash, flu, wheezing, breathing problems, memory loss, and fatigue.

How can mold affect my condominium in Florida?
Condominiums in Florida are highly susceptible to toxic mold contamination. Condominium Associations are required by the Florida Condominium Act to maintain the common elements. This, in many instances is not properly done and as a consequence, results in water intrusion into the condominium units resulting in Toxic Mold.

Do I have a case?
You should seek the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney determine if you "have a case". The Law Offices of Gordon Koegler, P.A. are among the most experienced firms in the area of toxic mold litigation. Please call our office today for a complimentary evaluation of your specific situation.