A
bout one‑quarter of U.S. adults (26 %) worry that their homes pose a health risk, a new survey of 2,000 adults found. While most respondents still believe their living spaces meet building standards—80 % overall, 86 % of homeowners versus 73 % of renters—many underestimate mold prevalence. The average estimate is that 37 % of American homes contain mold, yet 43 % think the figure is lower; the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reports the true rate at 47 %.
Only 23 % of participants have ever seen mold in their own homes, and 77 % claim never to have encountered it. Still, 76 % feel confident spotting mold, though only a quarter correctly identify the most common species. Stachybotrys chartarum was recognized by 25 % and Alternaria by 23 %. Common warning signs noted were water stains (21 %), peeling paint (20 %) and musty odors (19 %). About 20 % believe annual inspections are unnecessary, and 39 % admit they never inspect for mold.
Respondents identified bathrooms (63 %) and basements (44 %) as the most mold‑prone areas, while living rooms (40 %) and bedrooms (30 %) were seen as safest. “Mold thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces—especially bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and around windows or doors,” said Josh Miller, president of Rainbow Restoration. He warned that untreated mold can cause serious health problems and urged vigilance for musty smells, water damage, and visible growth.
Health symptoms linked to mold exposure were well known: coughing (44 %), wheezing (39 %) and sneezing (36 %). Less recognized effects included weight loss (5 %), tinnitus (5 %), extreme numbness and tingling (7 %), hair loss (8 %) and abdominal or muscle pain (9 %).
When asked about emergency preparedness, 21 % said mold prevention is a low or non‑priority. Fire (19 %) topped concerns, followed by storm damage (14 %) and power outages (11 %). Only 7 % listed mold first, yet 18 % discovered mold after a natural disaster this year. Miller noted that flooding and heavy rain can accelerate mold growth, demanding prompt professional action.
Regarding remediation, 49 % would immediately call a professional, while 40 % would attempt DIY removal. Miller cautioned that DIY methods are ineffective and that trained experts are essential to fully eliminate mold and prevent recurrence.
The survey was conducted online by Talker Research between August 12–15, 2025, commissioned by Rainbow Restoration, a Neighborly company.
