In testimony before Congress recently, groups representing the nation’s apartment owners and managers suggested that the problem with mold is something landlords and tenants should work on together.

The National Multi Housing Council and the National Apartment Association testified that instead of passing new regulations, Congress should find ways to promote scientific research that could identify and deal with molds that tend to contribute most to indoor pollution.

They also urged Congress to act “to avoid an insurance and financial crisis as a result of mold claims.”

The multifamily groups received support from the National Association of Home Builders.

"NAHB encourages efforts to find ways to help prevent or minimize the conditions that lead to mold growth and we support further research into construction practices, building materials, building design and occupant practices to identify factors associated with mold growth within indoor environments,” said Jerry Howard, chief financial officer of the NAHB.

The issue of mold, its effects on health and how to deal with it is playing an ever-larger role in the housing industry. Yet there appears to be no consensus among scientists about which molds affect human health and at what exposure levels.

One reason is not everyone has an adverse reaction to mold, just as not everyone reacts in the same way to additives in paint or to tree pollen.

There is no denying that mold can be a problem. News reports of homeowners burning their houses and possessions to get rid of mold can make a buyer wary when he sees some evidence of mold in your basement.

There are ways to keep mold and mildew in check.

For mold to grow, three factors have to be present: excessive moisture, a temperature between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and an organic food source.

The only factor that can be controlled is moisture.

The apartment groups offered a number of ways renters can reduce moisture in their apartments or limit its effects.

Some of these ideas also can be used by homeowners:

Published: July 25, 2002

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Al Heavens writes about real estate and home repair and improvement. He is the author of What No One Ever Tells You About Renovating Your Home: Real-Life Advice For Hassle-free, Cost-Effective Remodeling.