Mold likes moist and wet environments. Water leaks and too much humidity (over 60 percent) in homes can be the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold can grow on all types of surfaces including walls, rugs, fabric items, wood, and other surfaces.
Typically, home testing for mold is not needed. If a family can see or smell mold, this is enough information to perform mold remediation. It is also important that families inspect their homes for elevated humidity and water leaks, as these are areas where mold likes to grow. Being proactive in fixing these areas can prevent future mold exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have good, detailed information on mold exposures in the home (see Additional Resources).