Mold can grow quickly, it is important to treat as soon as the problem is found.  SERVPRO responded to this home and cleaned the mold off their belongings from a water loss in the home. 

Mold can grow anywhere moisture is present.  After a water loss mold began to grow quickly where the water had been present for an amount of time.  SERVPRO cleaned and treated the mold immediately. 

Shown in the picture is mold growing on a block foundation in a basement.  Basements provide some of the most ideal conditions for mold to form.  They are cool, damp, and dark.  Every basement has the possibility of outside water seeping into the structure for one reason or another leaving increased risk.  The best way to prevent mold from growing is to invest in a dehumidifier to keep the moisture levels low so that mold does not grow and to water proof your basement so that water is no longer entering.  If mold is found, do not clean with bleach.  It does not remove the mold, only bleaches it.  The best way to remove mold is to call SERVPRO to inspect the mold and to take samples.  The first step to preventing mold, is to first remove it!        

This picture shows mold growth to the left of the opening in the ceilings.  A water stain can be seen around the opening indicating a previous ongoing water issue.  The issue was not addressed immediately leaving a mold problem.  The mold is not a heavy growth but even a small amount of a certain mold can cause harmful effects to the inhabitant of the home.

Unfortunately if a water loss is not taken care of immediately, it can lead to more extensive issues.  The picture shown is of mold growing along a seem of finish on an oak floor board.  Water affected a hallway of hardwood floor causing it to warp.  When water seeped under the boards and was left for too long, mold began to grow.  This is why it is important that if possible, to begin removing water and moisture from the as soon as possible to prevent mold.   

Mold in the correct conditions can grow very quickly.  Saturated material such as drywall, paper, or particle board is the perfect home for mold.  Walls are usually installed on framing and closed on both sides making it difficult to dry and allowing mold to grow.  This is why it is important that flood affected walls are cut to remove any current mold growth and to dry the framing to prevent more mold.  After removing the walls, botanical anti microbials such as "benefact" are applied.