California’s new mold law took effect on 1/1/16 and makes visible mold code enforceable as substandard housing. Such qualified mold is now unlawful under State Housing Law. California is the first state to determine that mold growth is a health and safety concern when it endangers the life, limb, health, property, safety or welfare of the public or the building’s occupants. Dwellings with unlawful mold may be deemed uninhabitable and may be required to be vacated and or subject to other remedies including fines and penalties. Mold that is minor and found on surfaces that can accumulate moisture as part of their properly functioning and intended use is exempt; such mold is a housekeeping task.
The “California Department of Public Health has concluded that the presence of water damage, dampness, visible mold, or mold odor in schools, workplaces, residences, and other indoor environment is unhealthy”. (2015).
SEE THE PDF’S BELOW FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON SB655 AND RELATED MOLD DOCUMENTS.
LINK TO FINAL BILL SB665
SB655 FACT SHEET
CALIFORNIA RESOURCE BOARD INDOOR MOLD GUIDE
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH MOLD IN MY HOME