Mold spores require moisture to germinate and flourish, so, any kind of water damage to your property may spell huge mold problems. Mold will grow on a vast number of different surfaces such as wood, tile grout, carpeting, fabrics, paint etc. and if it is allowed to spread it could begin to cause health issues for individuals living in the property.

The molds which cause ill health are those which produce toxins known as mycotoxins, if these are present in high concentrations they will eventually cause allergies affecting the respiratory system and eyes as well as the chance of causing nausea, headaches and fatigue. People who already suffer from asthma, the very young and the elderly are most at risk.

With this in mind it is essential that any water damage is cleared up and dried out quickly and effectively to greatly reduce the amount of mold growth which may occur.

Undoubtedly the cause and severity of the water damage will be the deciding factors in determining whether or not it is within your capabilities to clear up and deal with the water damage mold yourself.

Severe flooding will most definitely require the experience of a professional company to clear up, dry out and restore your house as this would be a major project and would without doubt be beyond the knowledge of a vast number of DIY "experts." A professional company will also deal with any water damage mold clean up.

However, should you experience a burst pipe or something similar and the water damage is not too bad you may decide to tackle the clean up yourself.

The key to prohibiting water damage mold is to remove the excess water and moisture as quickly as possible.

#1 Remove everything from the flooded area. If the weather is conducive take all furniture etc. outside and allow it to dry out thoroughly.

#2 Remove any water in the property - you may need professional help or machinery to achieve this.

#3 Any clothing etc. which can be laundered should be laundered and completely dried also.

#4 Cardboard and paper are brilliant mold growing materials and therefore have to be removed and disposed of.

#5 Things like for instance carpets and rugs have to be dried out as rapidly as possible if you are going to stand any chance of stopping mold growth and re-using them. Again if you can take these outside and allow them to dry properly this is the best option. Cleaning with a steam cleaner may also be a wise move as this will kill off any mold spores and stop further mold growth.

#6 Floors, walls and wood should be dried out rapidly. Opening windows will help as will the use of heaters and electric fans (assuming you have a safe power supply!) however investing in a dehumidifier is undoubtedly the best option. If you don't want to buy a dehumidifier it is possible to lease one. There are dehumidifiers available which will not only help dry out the room/s but will also help remove mold spores from the air using a HEPA filter.

#7 Drying everything out however, may in some cases not be feasible if water damage and mold growth are extensive in plaster board, wall insulation, wood and floorings. These may require replacing to stop mold growth becoming a constant problem.

#8 Don't be tempted to cover mold growth with floor coverings, tiles, wall paper etc. or to bring back items such as furniture and soft furnishings until everything is 100% dry. If you do you will only incur further mold problems in the future.

#9 Any mold growth can be cleaned from walls and other surfaces using a wide range of cleaning materials either commercially bought mold removers from the store or household products such as vinegar or lemon juice form the kitchen cupboard.

#10 REMEMBER - If mold growth caused by water damage is vast recruiting a professional team to deal with it is essential.