
Overview
With 67.0 inches of annual rainfall and an average temperature of 42.1 F, Juneau experiences steady moisture pressure.
Juneau sits in Southeast Alaska where the maritime climate brings high precipitation and long wet seasons.
Juneau Code Compliance handles building and land use code complaints and notes that it does not handle mold complaints, so moisture issues should be documented as water intrusion or habitability concerns.
This guide highlights local moisture drivers, seasonal risk, and prevention steps. For legal rights and landlord obligations, review the Alaska mold laws guide.
Sources: [Britannica Climate of Alaska] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JUNEAU INTL AP, AK US] | [Juneau Code Compliance Complaints]
Action Checklist
Juneau Home Inspection Checklist
Common construction types in Juneau affect where moisture problems develop. Here is how local building patterns shape what to inspect.
In Juneau, code Compliance handles building and land use code complaints and provides a complaint process.
The city notes it does not handle mold complaints, so residents should focus reports on water intrusion or building code issues.
Sources: [Juneau Code Compliance Complaints]
- At 67.0 inches of yearly precipitation, post-storm attic and basement inspections are critical for Juneau homes.
- Window seals, exterior caulk lines, and siding joints after heavy rain.
- Roof flashing and gutters before and after long wet stretches.
- Crawl spaces and ground level storage for dampness.
- Bathroom fans venting outdoors.
- Exterior door thresholds and weatherstripping.
- Attic ventilation and insulation near roof penetrations.
- Plumbing lines in exterior walls for slow leaks.
Sources: [Britannica Climate of Alaska] | [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JUNEAU INTL AP, AK US]
Warning Signs of Mold in Juneau
Watch for these signs that moisture is lingering in Juneau homes and rentals:
- In Juneau, condensation on cold windows during long heating months (annual average about 42.1 F) is an early moisture signal.
- Musty odor that returns after rainy weeks.
- Condensation on windows that lingers into the afternoon.
- Peeling paint or soft drywall near exterior walls.
- Rusting vents or registers in humid rooms.
- Dark spotting around HVAC registers or ceiling vents.
- Recurring floor warping near bathrooms or entry doors.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JUNEAU INTL AP, AK US]
Mold Risk Factors in Juneau
These are the most common moisture drivers for homes and rentals in Juneau:
- Juneau averages 67.0 inches of precipitation annually, keeping roofs, windows, and foundations under regular moisture pressure.
- Heavy coastal precipitation keeps exterior materials wet for long stretches.
- Wind driven rain stresses siding joints and window seals.
- Cool temperatures slow drying after leaks.
- Marine humidity keeps indoor moisture elevated without active ventilation.
- Roof flashing failures can lead to hidden wall moisture.
Sources: [Britannica Climate of Alaska] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JUNEAU INTL AP, AK US]
Juneau Seasonal Risk Calendar
Spring
Rainy stretches keep materials wet. Inspect siding joints and window seals.
Summer
Cool summers still bring rain. Inspect roof edges after storms.
Fall
Wet weather returns. Clear gutters and watch roof flashing.
Winter
A 42.1 F yearly average means furnaces run heavily. Condensation on cold surfaces is common without consistent airflow.
Sources: [Britannica Climate of Alaska] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JUNEAU INTL AP, AK US]
Juneau Moisture Playbook
Use this short playbook to stay ahead of common moisture problems in Juneau.
After a Leak
Remove wet materials within 24 to 48 hours, run fans and dehumidifiers, and document damage with photos.
Monthly Maintenance
Log indoor humidity, clear condensate lines, and inspect window seals and exterior caulk.
Seasonal Tune Up
With 67.0 inches of rainfall annually, pre-season gutter cleaning, flashing inspections, and humidity monitoring (30 to 50 percent) are key.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [Britannica Climate of Alaska] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JUNEAU INTL AP, AK US]
Mold Prevention in Juneau
Use these priorities to keep indoor humidity low and avoid recurring growth:
- Annual rainfall near 67.0 inches makes gutter maintenance and proper downspout drainage a top prevention priority.
- Maintain indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent.
- Use dehumidifiers in lower levels during the wettest months.
- Seal window and door gaps before extended rain seasons.
- Keep gutters and drainage paths clear.
- Dry leaks within 24 to 48 hours.
- Run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during and after use.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JUNEAU INTL AP, AK US]
State Laws and Rights
Alaska mold law snapshot
Alaska does not have a mold-specific statute, but habitability rules still apply.
Under Alaska Statute 34.03.100, landlords must make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to put and keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition. This includes maintaining all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems in good and safe working order. The landlord must also keep common areas clean and safe, provide appropriate waste removal, supply running water and reasonable amounts of hot water and heat, and provide smoke and carbon monoxide detection devices. While mold is not specifically mentioned, conditions that promote mold growth (such as plumbing leaks, inadequate ventilation, or water intrusion) would violate these habitability standards.
Use the full Alaska guide for tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and remedies.