Mold is not always a dramatic patch on a wall. It may first appear as a persistent musty odor, discoloration around windows, staining below a plumbing fixture, or a recurring damp feeling in a basement, bathroom, attic, or closet. The visible spot is useful information, but the moisture source matters more than appearance alone.
Seattle’s wet seasons can expose weaknesses in roofs, exterior joints, ventilation, and drainage. Indoor leaks and condensation add another layer. If a material stays damp, mold can grow on drywall paper, wood, dust, carpet backing, and insulation. A useful assessment looks at both the growth and the path water took to reach it.