Latest news with #Stachybotrys
Time Business News
05-06-2025
- Climate
- Time Business News
Atlantic Hurricane Season 2025: Mold Prevention & Removal Tips for South Florida Homeowners
The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, currently running from June 1 to November 30, brings heightened risks of storms, heavy rainfall, and flooding to South Florida. These conditions create a perfect breeding ground for mold, which can damage homes and pose health risks. For South Florida homeowners, preparing for mold prevention and knowing how to address mold growth are critical to protecting property and well-being. This guide provides a comprehensive look into mold prevention and mold removal tailored to the challenges of the 2025 hurricane season. Mold thrives in warm, humid, and wet environments—conditions that are all too common in South Florida, especially during hurricane season. Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours after water exposure, making rapid response essential. Common types of mold in South Florida include Aspergillus , Penicillium , and Stachybotrys (black mold), which can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems, particularly for those with compromised immune systems. Hurricanes and tropical storms often lead to water intrusion from roof leaks, broken windows, or flooding, creating ideal conditions for mold growth. South Florida's high humidity, often exceeding 70%, exacerbates the problem, as does the region's frequent power outages, which can disable air conditioning and dehumidifiers. In 2025, with forecasts indicating an active hurricane season, homeowners must be proactive to mitigate mold risks. Preparation is key to preventing mold during hurricane season. By taking proactive steps before, during, and after a storm, homeowners can significantly reduce the likelihood of mold growth. Before the Storm: Preparation and Protection Inspect and Repair Your Home Roof Maintenance : Check for loose or damaged shingles, tiles, or flashing. Hire a professional to repair leaks or weak spots. Seal Openings : Ensure windows, doors, and vents are properly sealed. Use weatherstripping or caulk to close gaps where water could enter. Clear Gutters and Drains : Remove debris from gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems to prevent water pooling around your home. : Check for loose or damaged shingles, tiles, or flashing. Hire a professional to repair leaks or weak spots. Prepare an Emergency Kit Include plastic sheeting, tarps, duct tape, and sandbags to protect against water intrusion if windows break or leaks occur. Stock up on battery-powered fans, dehumidifiers (if possible), and mold-resistant cleaning supplies like vinegar or commercial mold inhibitors. Control Indoor Humidity Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity below 60%. Portable units are ideal for smaller spaces or during power outages if paired with a generator. Ensure air conditioning units are serviced and functioning to maintain air circulation and reduce moisture. Elevate Valuables and Furniture Move furniture, electronics, and important documents to higher floors or elevate them on blocks to avoid floodwater damage. Store items in waterproof containers or sealed plastic bags. Document Your Home Take photos or videos of your home's interior and exterior before the storm for insurance purposes. This can help document pre-existing conditions and streamline claims if mold damage occurs. Minimize Water Intrusion If safe, cover broken windows or roof damage with tarps or plastic sheeting to limit water entry. Use sandbags or barriers to divert water away from entry points. Monitor Indoor Conditions If power is available, keep air conditioning or fans running to reduce humidity. Avoid using wet or damaged electrical appliances to prevent safety hazards. After the Storm: Quick Response to Prevent Mold Assess and Document Damage Inspect your home for water damage as soon as it's safe. Look for wet walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture. Document damage with photos or videos for insurance claims. Dry Out Your Home Immediately Remove Standing Water : Use a wet/dry vacuum, pump, or buckets to remove floodwater. Act within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. Ventilate : Open windows and doors (if safe) and use fans to circulate air. Battery-powered or generator-powered fans are useful during outages. Dehumidify : Run dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If power is unavailable, consider renting a generator-powered unit. : Use a wet/dry vacuum, pump, or buckets to remove floodwater. Act within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. Remove Wet Materials Discard waterlogged items like carpets, rugs, mattresses, and upholstered furniture that cannot be thoroughly dried within 48 hours. Cut away and remove wet drywall or insulation, especially if exposed to floodwater, which may contain contaminants. Clean and Disinfect Clean hard surfaces (tile, concrete, etc.) with a mixture of water and vinegar or a commercial mold-inhibiting cleaner. Avoid mixing bleach with ammonia-based products, as this can create toxic fumes. Monitor for Mold Signs Look for visible mold (green, black, or white patches) or musty odors in areas like basements, bathrooms, or under sinks. Use a moisture meter to check for hidden dampness in walls or floors. If mold appears despite prevention efforts, prompt and proper removal is essential to prevent further damage and health risks. For small areas (less than 10 square feet), homeowners may be able to handle the mold remediation themselves. Larger infestations or mold caused by contaminated floodwater require professional intervention. Safety First Wear protective gear: N95 respirator mask, gloves, and goggles to avoid inhaling mold spores or skin contact. Ventilate the area by opening windows or using fans to direct spores outside. Contain the Area Seal off the affected area with plastic sheeting to prevent mold spores from spreading to other parts of the home. Turn off HVAC systems to avoid circulating spores through air ducts. Clean Affected Surfaces For non-porous surfaces (tile, glass, metal), use a solution of 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water or a commercial mold cleaner. Scrub thoroughly and dry completely. For porous surfaces (drywall, wood), cleaning may be less effective. Consider removing and replacing heavily affected materials. Dry and Monitor Use fans and dehumidifiers to ensure the area is completely dry. Check for mold regrowth over the next few weeks. Large Infestations: If mold covers more than 10 square feet, hire a certified mold remediation company to help you remove the mold. Contaminated Water: Floodwater from hurricanes often contains sewage or chemicals, requiring specialized cleanup. Hidden Mold: If you suspect mold behind walls, under floors, or in HVAC systems, professionals can use tools like thermal imaging to detect it. Health Concerns: If household members experience symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or skin irritation, stop DIY efforts and seek professional help. To find a reliable mold remediation company in South Florida: Look for certifications from organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) or the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI). Check reviews on platforms like Google or the Better Business Bureau. Verify licensing and insurance, as Florida requires mold remediators to be licensed under state law. Review Your Insurance Policy : Standard homeowners' insurance often excludes mold damage unless it's directly caused by a covered peril (e.g., a burst pipe from a hurricane). Flood-related mold typically requires separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). : Standard homeowners' insurance often excludes mold damage unless it's directly caused by a covered peril (e.g., a burst pipe from a hurricane). Flood-related mold typically requires separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Document Everything : Keep detailed records of damage, repairs, and remediation costs for insurance claims. : Keep detailed records of damage, repairs, and remediation costs for insurance claims. Act Quickly: Many policies require prompt action to mitigate damage. Delaying could jeopardize claims. After the 2025 hurricane season, take steps to make your home more resilient: Install a Whole-House Dehumidifier: These systems help maintain low humidity levels year-round. Upgrade Ventilation: Ensure bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms have proper exhaust fans vented to the outside. Use Mold-Resistant Materials: When renovating, opt for mold-resistant drywall, paints, or flooring designed for humid climates. Regular Inspections: Schedule annual checks for roof, plumbing, and HVAC systems to catch potential issues early. Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, or infections, particularly for children, the elderly, or those with respiratory conditions. If you notice symptoms like persistent coughing, sneezing, or headaches, consult a healthcare provider and address mold immediately. During cleanup, avoid direct contact with mold and ensure proper ventilation to minimize spore inhalation. FEMA: Offers guidance on flood recovery and mold prevention at Florida Department of Health: Provides mold and health information at National Flood Insurance Program: Learn about flood insurance at Local Emergency Management: Check with your county (e.g., Palm Beach, Broward) for post-storm resources and contractor recommendations. Preparing for Hurricanes, Water Damage and Mold The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season poses significant challenges for South Florida homeowners, but proactive mold prevention and swift remediation can protect your home and health. By preparing for heavy rain and flooding in South Florida before a storm, acting quickly after water damage, and knowing when to call professionals, you can minimize mold risks. Stay vigilant, keep humidity in check, and leverage local resources to ensure your home remains a safe haven during and after the hurricane season. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Mold in privatized housing cost this Navy family their health and reenlistment bonus
When Jackie and Anthonie Talarico moved their family into privatized housing at Naval Air Station Key West, Florida, Jackie Talarico said she quickly noticed floors lifting and mold inside their bathroom. Over the next couple of years, the problems got worse: an HVAC system continued to leak and the ceiling over her daughter's bed began to cave in by several inches. Anthonie Talarico, a Navy cryptologist, developed a respiratory infection and when Jackie cleaned out an air filter in the air conditioning system, she had an allergy attack so severe it sent her to the hospital. Her 7-year-old daughter had nosebleeds and vomiting fits, while her 4-year-old son had developmental delays while living in the home, which was managed by private housing contractor Balfour Beatty, which oversees housing at 55 Army, Navy, and Air Force installations in the U.S. Four months after moving out, Talarico tested positive for mycotoxins or toxins from mold exposure. She still suffers from joint pain, chronic hives and abdominal issues, she told Task & Purpose. Now, she is waiting for more test results that could indicate if she has underlying autoimmune disorders. As they prepare their new home, they've spent $20,000 replacing mold-laced furniture and other household items. The Talarico's are one of dozens of families who have joined a lawsuit against Balfour Betty for fraud and gross negligence, alleging that they were exposed to mold, water damage, lead paint, asbestos, structural defects, and other 'serious unsafe conditions' because of 'systematic neglect' by the company. 'What I hope to see is that all of our families get to see at least justice and accountability be served. I just want the acknowledgment that it wasn't my fault, that I know, as a mother, I didn't harm my babies. I thought they were in a safe home,' Talarico told Task & Purpose. 'We are aware of the complaint and intend to defend ourselves vigorously,' a spokesperson from Balfour Beatty Communities said in an emailed statement to Task & Purpose. The Navy declined to comment on the pending litigation. Jackie Talarico said she hired her own mold inspector for their home, who discovered Stachybotrys in their walls, otherwise known as 'black mold' — a type that medical experts say can lead to allergic reactions, fatigue, light-headedness, irritability, and sleep issues or even fungal airway infections for those with weakened immune systems. 'Regardless of the outcome, I should have never been put in this position to even have that thought in my head,' she said. 'What I'm going through now with all of my symptoms and the things I'm experiencing, I feel like that's something people don't realize. It doesn't end when you leave Key West.' Lawyers representing more than 190 current and former residents of Balfour Beatty homes in Florida allege that the company 'misled' families about their repairs and never actually performed necessary remediation work. The company, the families allege, 'falsely marked' work orders as finished. 'Balfour misled Plaintiff families into believing that repairs were made, knowing that families living in the homes would likely suffer serious health problems as a result of the conditions,' the lawsuit states. The lawsuit lists a host of physical ailments the families ascribe to the unaddressed housing issues like asthma, respiratory issues, sinusitis, migraines, memory loss, brain fog, blurred vision, and compromised immune systems. In addition to the physical effects, the families are also seeking damages for 'emotional and psychological injuries' such as depression and anxiety they are suffering as a result of the housing conditions. Last August, the Talaricos moved out of the Balfour-run home — but not because they wanted to. Instead, they were given a 45-day notice to vacate so that Balfour Beatty could 'perform necessary maintenance work.' Talarico and her two children slept on an air mattress at a temporary home while her husband was deployed. The Talaricos now live in Maryland, though the permanent change of station, PCS move to get there brought a final mold-related nightmare: when planning their household goods shipment to Maryland, the moving company told the Talaricos that they couldn't 'expose our crews to the potential health concern,' and instructed her to remove, clean and put her furniture in a 'mold-free environment,' according to an email viewed by Task & Purpose. Her husband's reenlistment bonus has gone to replacing furniture, decor, couches, mattresses and sheets, she said. 'A bonus that should have been given to him for all his hard work and dedication to service,' Talarico said Talarico said in addition to the common replacements, they've also lost family heirlooms and other sentimental, handmade decor. As she shops for new furniture, Talarico said the mold effects still haunt her psychologically. 'Now I'm terrified of farmhouse furniture and decor. I'm in the store and I'm trying to go shopping for this new house after everything has been out on my curb. I'm looking in the store and I'm like, 'I can't buy this. Can it be remediated if this were to ever happen to me again?'' Talarico said. 'I'm in this new house, and I know it's safe, but I am constantly everywhere I go — I walk into your house, I'm looking at your HVAC, I'm in your bathroom. I'm checking for leaks. That is what it does to you.' It's not the first time that Balfour Beatty has come under fire for tenant housing issues. The company pleaded guilty in December 2021 to major fraud against the U.S. and agreed to pay more than $65 million in fines and restitution for falsifying its performance data and destroying resident comment cards to pocket performance incentive fees. The scheme, in part, led to the creation of the Tenant Bill of Rights for families living in private military housing and specifies that housing for military families must meet health and environmental standards, have working appliances and utilities and receive proper landlord management. Talarico said she now advocates for all military families dealing with housing issues to 'document and get it in writing.' 'If you don't, they will continue to gaslight you. You won't have the proof. And unfortunately, when companies decide to continue to put that greed and corruption above the health and safety of the families, you're forced to do something like start a lawsuit,' she said. 'You're not crazy.' Those 'Hegseth bodyguards' are actually there for the Air Force's 'Doomsday' plane Army wants junior officers to fix quality-of-life issues that drive soldiers out '100% OPSEC' apparently means texting military plans to a reporter Ranger School's new fitness test is tougher than ever, but nixes sit-ups This photo of Air Force special ops pool training is chaos. There's a reason for that.
