🦠 5 Signs You Might Have Mold in Your Home (And What to Do About It)

By VantageGuard Home Inspections | Serving Redding, Chico & Northern California

Mold isn’t always visible—but it’s often hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or real estate investor, spotting the early signs of mold can save you thousands in repairs and help you avoid serious health risks.

Here are 5 of the most common signs you might have mold in your home—and how a professional inspection can help.

1. A Musty or Earthy Smell That Won’t Go Away

One of the biggest red flags for hidden mold is a persistent, musty odor—especially in basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or under sinks.

Even if you can’t see mold, that damp, earthy smell usually means moisture is present… and mold may already be growing behind walls, under flooring, or inside ventilation systems.

2. Recent Water Damage or Leaks

If you’ve had a roof leak, broken pipe, flood, or even an overflowing tub—mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours if the area wasn’t dried out properly.

Keep an eye on:

• Ceilings and drywall stains

• Buckling floors or baseboards

• Discoloration around windows or vents

Past water damage = high mold risk.

3. Visible Spots or Stains on Walls or Ceilings

Mold often shows up as:

• Black, green, or gray spots

• Speckled patterns or blotchy patches

• Growth around vents, windows, or in corners

Not all discoloration is mold—but if it’s spreading, recurring, or smells strange, it’s time to get it checked out.

4. Worsening Allergies or Respiratory Symptoms

Mold spores can trigger:

• Sneezing or coughing

• Nasal congestion

• Headaches

• Itchy eyes or skin

• Asthma flare-ups

If symptoms get worse at home—but improve when you leave the house—your home may have an air quality issue caused by hidden mold.

5. Humidity Problems or Poor Ventilation

If your home regularly feels damp, or you notice condensation on windows or walls, it’s a sign that moisture levels are too high—creating the perfect environment for mold growth.

Common trouble areas include:

• Bathrooms without working fans

• Crawlspaces and attics

• Laundry rooms or closets near water lines

A dehumidifier can help, but identifying the source of excess moisture is key.

👷 What to Do if You Suspect Mold

The best first step is to schedule a professional mold inspection. At VantageGuard, we’ll:

• Assess visible signs of mold

• Use moisture meters and thermal imaging to detect hidden problems

• Provide a photo-rich report with clear next steps

• Offer optional lab testing if needed

We don’t sell remediation—we simply give you the unbiased truth about what’s going on in your home.

📅 Book a Mold Inspection Today

Don’t wait until mold becomes a serious health or structural problem. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, let’s take a closer look.

📞 Call VantageGuard: 530-206-0416📅 Book Online: https://calendly.com/vgguard

VantageGuard Home Inspections — Redding & Chico’s Trusted Mold Inspection Experts.Protecting what matters most—your home and your health.