For parents helping from out of state
This page is for the parent who gets the call: something looks wrong at the off-campus house and you need a calm local next step.
Musty odor
Visible mold
Bathroom mold
Basement mold
Mold after leak
Attic or ceiling concern
Why parents use this page
- Your student noticed mold, odor, water damage, or a recurring moisture issue and you are trying to help from another city or state.
- The property may be a rental house, apartment, duplex, or family-owned off-campus house.
- You need careful documentation without making health or species assumptions from color alone.
What to ask your student to send
- Photos from a safe distance without scraping, sanding, bleaching, or disturbing growth.
- Room, surface, approximate size, odor timing, and leak/humidity history.
- Whether the landlord/property manager has already been notified and whether repairs or cleaning were attempted.
- Whether vulnerable occupants are present or anyone has medical concerns that should go to a medical professional.
When to move faster
- Growth is spreading or returning after cleaning.
- Drywall, carpet, insulation, or other porous materials stayed wet.
- A leak is active or the moisture source is unknown.
- Your student is worried about exposure or cannot get a clear response locally.