An article which appeared in the Washington Post on 1 February 2009 highlights the importance of locating and removing mold from your home.

A jury in Virginia has awarded the Meng family US$ 4.75 million dollars in damages for severe health problems caused by toxic mold found throughout their home. The family does not live in the home anymore.

This is truly a tragic story and should serve as a wake-up call to those who still have doubts about the serious health hazards posed by mold. Here are some of the symptoms that the family suffered:

· Migraines

· Heart palpitations

· Headaches

· Dizziness

· Nosebleeds

· Shortness of breadth

· Memory loss

· Asthma

One thing struck me about this case which is worth mentioning and that is the house was brand new. You don’t normally expect a mold problem in a new house, do you? It seems that’s how the Mengs saw it as well. Even though Mrs. Meng started getting migraines three months after moving into the new home, it was some 15 months later that the husband, Mr. Meng actually tested for and discovered mold.

So, clearly, it seems that you can get a mold problem even though your house may be new. If you have a damp area in your house –whether it is new or not- you’d do well to check it to see if you can spot any evidence of mold growth.

But a word of caution. Unless you know what you’re doing, you should abandon any notion of removing the mold yourself if you do find some. Call a professional or get some training if you fancy yourself as a bit of a handyman.

You will find the full story of what happened to the Meng family here.

Update: In a decision which is generating robust debate and dividing opinion, the original jury award of US$ 4.75 million has now been slashed to US$ 1.4 million. The major sticking point is that the judge found that the Mengs had not suffered “permanent injury”. But note that the Mengs still won their case. This thing still has legs: the next step is likely to be the Virginia Supreme Court where the Mengs will be arguing for the original award to be restored. Stay tuned.

Read the full story here, including the  many comments.