California law requires a special license for contractors who deal with asbestos and lead, as well as special training and certification in removal and abatement practices. Before you hire a company to handle these types of problems, it’s imperative to confirm its qualifications. “Due to lack of education or simply to avoid delays, a lot of contractors go into people’s homes and start doing their work without testing for asbestos or lead,” says Scott Tamayo, co-owner of Environmental Remedies, Inc. in Fremont. “They end up contaminating the homes and exposing the occupants—and their workers as well—to these health hazards. It’s a common problem, unfortunately. Property owners need to be aware of the hazardous materials that are in their buildings and ensure their contractors are following the laws meant to protect them.”
Mr. Tamayo emphasizes that the presence of asbestos or lead isn’t necessarily dangerous. It’s only harmful when particles are released into the air via peeling or damage created by remodeling-related demolition. “If the asbestos or lead is intact, you can usually just leave it alone,” says Mr. Tamayo. “But you need to be aware of where it is so you can warn any contractors that come in to do work. If it becomes damaged or starts to peel, you should call a licensed abatement contractor.”
Here are some general tips for preventing and controlling household mold:
• When water leaks or spills occur indoors, act quickly. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried within 24 to 48 hours, mold usually won’t grow.
• Regularly clean and repair roof gutters.
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
• If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter—a small, inexpensive ($10 to $50) instrument available at many hardware stores.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes, quickly dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.
Reducing humidity
• Vent moisture producing appliances (dryers, stoves, kerosene heaters) to the outside when possible. Combustion appliances produce water vapor and will increase humidity unless vented to the outside.
• Run the bathroom fan or open a window when showering. Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking or running the dishwasher.
Preventing condensation
• Increase ventilation by opening doors and windows when it’s practical. Use fans as needed.
• Cover cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes, with insulation.
• Increase air temperature.
