A Word About Mold

Since mold is everywhere and is a naturally occurring process of nature, you will undoubtedly encounter mold at some point while living in your apartment. If you want to prevent mold, or know how to deal with it effectively, you need to know a little bit about mold.

• There are over 100,000 types of mold; 2,000 of which are “common”
• Mold needs three things to grow – Moisture, Temperature, and a Food Source. “A food source” can be any organic matter including small particles like dust and dander as well as larger items like food, paper, and clothing.
• Controlling mold within your home requires that you control the elements that mold needs to grow – that is, Moisture, Temperature, and Food Source.

Moisture is Your Enemy

• On a regular basis, wipe down and dry areas where moisture sometimes accumulates, like countertops, windows and windowsills.
• Use the bathroom fan or alternative ventilation when bathing or showering, and allow the fan to run until all excess moisture is vented from the bathroom.
• Use the exhaust fan in your kitchen when cooking or while the dishwasher is running and allow the fan to run until all excess moisture is vented from the kitchen.
• When washing clothes in warm or hot water, make sure condensation does not build up within the washer and dryer closet; if condensation does accumulate, dry with a fan or towel.
• Ensure that your clothes dryer vent is operating properly, and clean the lint screen after every use.
• Do not allow damp or moist stacks of clothes or other cloth materials to lie in piles for an extended period of time.
• Thoroughly dry any spills or liquids of any kind on the carpet.
• In damp or rainy weather conditions, keep windows and doors closed.

Cleaning is a Must

• Clean and dust your apartment on a regular basis, as required by your lease. Regular vacuuming, mopping, and the use of household cleaners are important to remove dirt and debris that contribute to mold growth.
• Periodically clean and dry the walls and floors around the sink, bathtub, shower, toilets, windows and patio doors using a common household disinfecting cleaner.
• For cleaning mold growth that has reached the “visible” stage, you’ll want to use a biocide agent with a detergent, like Lysol Mold & Mildew with bleach.

Ventilation is Really Important

• When possible, open your windows.
• You may want to use a supplemental fan or ceiling fan for added air movement.
• Do not overfill closets or storage areas. Ventilation is especially important in these spaces.

We ask that you call us at 217-352-1129 immediately under any of the following situations:

• You observe evidence of a water leak or excessive moisture in your apartment, storage room, garage, or any common area.
• You observe a mold growth that can’t be removed by properly cleaning the area or that reappears despite regular cleaning.
• You observe a failure or malfunction of the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or laundry systems.