Are you unsure about the presence of mold in your crawl space? This guide will discuss some of the signs of mold to help you out. The crawl space under your house can attract pests, fungi, rodents, reptiles, and many unwanted critter germs. The humid and warm environment of your crawl space can also encourage mold growth. Exposure to mold has been linked to allergies and respiratory illnesses. Mold is particularly dangerous for people with chronic breathing conditions such as asthma. But how do you find out whether mold is present in your crawl space? If you see these signs, you should immediately get your crawl space inspected for mold: Moisture Regardless of the source, moisture is the main driver of mold growth. If you detect moisture in your crawl space, mold is probably already present or it will inevitably grow. Hence, the best way to prevent mold growth is to control moisture at its source. You can do that by keeping your crawl space well-ventilated and dry any damp areas as soon as you see them. You can use a dehumidifier for that, and to prevent water from backing up into the crawl space, install a drainage system, downspouts, and gutters. Smell Another common indication of mold is a musty smell inside your crawl space. Look out for the damp smell and the odor in and around the area. If you sense a foul smell, get your crawl space inspected or mold. Vermin and Pests If you find insects and parasites in your crawl space, there’s a great chance that moisture is present, which again signifies the presence of mold. If insects made their way into your crawl space, then so can water. When you do come across pest infestation, look for openings from where they could have entered. Allergic Reactions You may not be able to see mold but it could already be affecting you or your family members. If you have a runny or stuffy nose, have trouble breathing, and have a severe cough, you may have sustained a mold allergy attack after breathing in mold spores. These symptoms will exacerbate over time so it’s best to seek mold inspection and remediation services when you feel uneasy. High Energy Bills If you detect a sudden surge in your utility bills for no apparent reason, there might be a pipe leak somewhere in your home. If the leakage is in or around your crawl space, moisture may have made its way inside, paving the way for mold growth. In this case, both the leak and the resultant mold may be difficult to find, which means it can spread to other areas before you can do something about it. Thus, the best course of action after seeing any of these signs is to contact a home restoration company. To get your crawl space inspected, reach out to the Service Team of Professionals today.