Mold And Indoor Air Basics

Is Mold Regulated?

Mold is not a local, state, or federally regulated hazard. There are no legal standards or limits for mold levels in homes or businesses.

The Health Department does not:

Test for mold
Identify mold types
Perform “clearance” inspections
Order landlords or property owners to remove mold

Our role is to educate and help you understand moisture and mold issues.

Who can help?

Many mold problems come from building conditions, such as:

Water damage and chronic dampness
Leaky pipes or roofs
Lack of ventilation
Structural issues that allow water intrusion

These types of issues fall under Planning & Community Development (Code Enforcement/Housing). The housing code does not regulate mold directly; however, it regulates the conditions that lead to mold growth.

How Mold Grows

Mold spores are everywhere—indoors and outdoors. They are usually harmless until conditions are right for growth.

Mold needs:

Mold spores (always present)
A food source (wood, paper, drywall, dust)
The right temperature (most indoor spaces)
Time (wet areas not dried within 24 hours)
Moisture – the most important factor

If you see or smell mold, treat it as a sign of a moisture problem.

Common moisture sources:

Leaking or broken pipes
Roof leaks
High humidity or damp basements
Indoor flooding
Bathrooms or dryers vented into attics or indoor spaces
Poor ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens

Unless the source of moisture is addressed, mold will likely return even after cleaning.

What To Do If You Have Mold

Look for moisture

Check for leaks, damp spots, or condensation.

Fix the source

Repair leaks, improve ventilation, and direct water away from the building.

Clean and dry

Dry wet areas and materials within 24 hours when possible.
Small areas on hard, non-porous surfaces can often be cleaned following general cleaning guidance.

Prevent it from returning

Keep the area dry and well ventilated.

Mold Testing

The Manchester Health Department does not provide mold testing or inspections.

In most cases, mold testing is not recommended because:

There are no local, state, or federal standards for airborne mold levels.
Mold is a natural part of the environment.
Testing can be expensive and may not change what needs to be done.

Bottom line:
If you see or smell mold, focus on finding and fixing the moisture problem rather than testing.

If you choose to hire a private mold professional, the City cannot recommend specific companies.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the chance of mold growth:

Clean and dry spills and floods within 24 hours.
Dry wet carpets, drywall, and building materials within 24 hours if possible.
Fix roof and plumbing leaks promptly.
Use dehumidifiers in damp areas (like basements).
Use exhaust fans during and after showers and cooking.
Make sure bathroom fans and dryers vent to the outside, not into attics or crawlspaces.

Try to keep indoor humidity: