Hundreds of mold species can turn up indoors, but a handful account for most of what's found in Virginia homes. You generally don't need to identify the species yourself — the response to indoor mold is similar regardless of type — but understanding the common ones helps you know what you're dealing with. (For the species most people mean by "toxic mold," see our black mold page.)
The greenish-black mold associated with sustained water damage on drywall and wood. Needs careful containment to remove.
One of the most common indoor molds — many colors, found on walls, insulation, and in HVAC systems.
Blue-green mold that spreads quickly indoors after water damage, on materials, fabrics and wallpaper.
Olive-green to brown mold that grows in both warm and cool spots — fabrics, carpets, and around windows.
For removal decisions, usually not. The EPA's guidance is that any sustained indoor mold growth should be cleaned up and the moisture source fixed, regardless of species. Lab identification matters mainly for documentation — insurance, real-estate, or medical situations — which is where testing comes in.
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