Dampness can often provide a breeding ground for Microbial Violate Organic Compounds (MVOC) and myotoxins. Elevated humidity can cause chemical odors to be released from building material and furniture. Dampness can also damage buildings structure components and increase the presence of termites, ants and rodents. Exposure to damp and moldy environments can cause a variety of health issues or non at all depending on the sufferer.
Some people are very sensitive to mold spores and odors. For these unfortunate sufferers mold can cause nasal irritations, cough, sore throat, or skin irritations. People with allergies may have severe reactions. Immune compromised people and people with chronic lung illness may get severe infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold. There are ongoing studies related to ill effects due to mold exposure.
Mold is difficult to detect when it is hidden behind walls, flooring and in attic and crawl spaces. It is of no value to locate and remove mold if what was causing it to grow in the first place is not then removed.