TO: All SPI Contractors
FROM: Steve Meyer, Hazard Claims Director
DATE: June 14, 2001
RE: Black Mold

The following information is being sent to you as an FYI only.

As many of you are aware HUD and the M&M contractors are becoming very strict in the enforcement of the guidelines. Following is an issue that you need to be aware of and keep a close watch when inspecting
a vacant property.

In many of the properties you will be inspecting you will find mold. As we will discuss, there are several different types of mold. We can make an educated guess as to the type of mold based on where it is located, but only testing by an industrial hygienist can determine the exact type of mold and whether it is the toxic mold.

Toxic Black Mold

The mold with the potential exposure hazard is Stachybotrys and Memnoniella. These molds occur when materials containing cellulose are repeatedly wet or moist. Cellulose materials are drywall, cardboard, ceiling tile, cellulose, wood, etc. The mold can also be found on wet decaying leaves, where the airborne mold spores can re-enter the property. The mold can grow behind drywall or in hidden areas of the house such as ducts with organic debris.

If the mold is growing on materials that do not contain cellulose, it is unlikely that it is the toxic mold, but only testing can determine this for sure.

If you find black mold growing on a cellulose material it is covering 50% or more of the walls in at least one room, it is prudent not to disturb the mold until it is tested. If the tests are negative for the toxic mold, the materials should be removed and discarded in heavy-duty plastic bags and according to local codes and standards. You need to take appropriate precautions for your own health.

If the tests are positive for Stachybotrys we will have a company specializing in the abatement do the work.

The Nontoxic Black Mold

The non-toxic mold is mainly in the bathroom and in unfinished basements. It grows on shower stalls, grouting the painted ceilings above the shower.

This mold can be cleaned with bleach and then washed with a strong detergent. You should then apply a coat of Kilz as the mold pigment may stain the wall or ceiling.

Additional Information

While at the property we need to identify and recommend remediation of the source of the moisture. We can clean up the mold, but it will come back if the source of the moisture is not repaired.

You need to let us know if there is a significant amount of mold (covering 50% or more of the walls and ceilings) which you believe should be tested before proceeding.

If you have any suspicion that the property might have a mold issue notify your regional coordinator immediately!