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Overview
Joliet receives roughly 38.0 inches of precipitation per year at an average of 50.4 F, which means it experiences a mix of wet spells and dry breaks.
Regional weather across Illinois adds another layer of moisture risk, as statewide storm seasons and humidity shifts affect indoor conditions.
Joliet experiences cold winters and humid summers, so moisture risks shift between snowmelt and summer humidity.
Joliet Building and Inspectional Services enforces adopted building codes.
Joliet Building and Inspectional Services enforces building codes and conducts inspections.
This guide highlights local moisture drivers, seasonal risk, and prevention steps. For legal rights and landlord obligations, review the Illinois mold laws guide.
Sources: [Illinois Climate | Britannica] | [Joliet Building Code Information] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JOLIET BRANDON RD DAM, IL US]
Action Checklist
Joliet Home Inspection Checklist
Common construction types in Joliet affect where moisture problems develop. Here is how local building patterns shape what to inspect.
In Joliet, joliet Building and Inspectional Services enforces building codes for property conditions.
Documenting moisture damage helps support follow up inspections.
Joliet Building and Inspectional Services enforces building codes and conducts inspections.
Sources: [Joliet Building Code Information]
- Joliet gets roughly 38.0 inches of precipitation per year. Schedule gutter, roof, and drainage inspections seasonally.
- Attic insulation and roof flashing after snow.
- Window frames and sills with condensation.
- Basement corners and sump pump pits.
- Bathroom fans and vent ducts.
- Laundry hoses and floor drains.
- Water heater pans and overflow lines.
- Kitchen cabinet bases around plumbing.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JOLIET BRANDON RD DAM, IL US]
Warning Signs of Mold in Joliet
Watch for these signs that moisture is lingering in Joliet homes and rentals:
- In Joliet, where average temperatures reach 50.4 F, condensation on windows during warmer months points to a moisture imbalance indoors.
- Condensation that returns on windows each morning.
- Musty odors in basements or closets.
- Peeling paint near baseboards or window trim.
- Dark spotting near ceiling corners.
- Soft drywall around tubs or showers.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JOLIET BRANDON RD DAM, IL US]
Mold Risk Factors in Joliet
These are the most common moisture drivers for homes and rentals in Joliet:
- Climate records show Joliet getting 38.0 inches of annual precipitation, so storm events and small leaks both matter.
- Snow and ice create roof edge leaks during freeze thaw cycles.
- Spring rain and snowmelt can dampen basements.
- Summer humidity slows drying after leaks.
- Condensation builds on windows in winter.
- Plumbing leaks can linger in utility rooms.
Sources: [Illinois Climate | Britannica] | [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JOLIET BRANDON RD DAM, IL US]
Joliet Seasonal Risk Calendar
Winter
A 50.4 F yearly average means furnaces run heavily. Condensation on cold surfaces is common without consistent airflow.
Spring
Rain and snowmelt can dampen basements. Check sump pumps.
Summer
Cool summers still bring rain. Inspect roof edges after storms.
Fall
Cooling temperatures bring condensation in tight homes.
Sources: [Illinois Climate | Britannica] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JOLIET BRANDON RD DAM, IL US]
Joliet Moisture Playbook
Use this short playbook to stay ahead of common moisture problems in Joliet.
After a Leak
Stop the source, remove wet materials, and dry the area within 24 to 48 hours.
Monthly Maintenance
Check under sinks, clear condensate lines, and monitor indoor humidity.
Seasonal Tune Up
Before storm season, clear gutters and inspect flashing; about 38.0 inches of annual precipitation means small leaks can add up.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JOLIET BRANDON RD DAM, IL US]
Mold Prevention in Joliet
Use these priorities to keep indoor humidity low and avoid recurring growth:
- At 38.0 inches of annual rainfall, maintaining clear gutters and extending downspouts well away from foundations is essential.
- Maintain indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent.
- Dry wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.
- Vent bathrooms and kitchens outdoors.
- Inspect roof flashing and gutters before winter.
- Check basements after snowmelt and heavy rain.
- Service HVAC condensate drains annually.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - JOLIET BRANDON RD DAM, IL US]
State Laws and Rights
Illinois mold law snapshot
Illinois has mold-specific rules in addition to general habitability standards.
Illinois courts have established an implied warranty of habitability that requires landlords to maintain rental properties in a safe, sanitary, and fit condition for human habitation. This warranty is automatically included in every residential lease agreement in Illinois, whether written or oral, and cannot be waived by lease provisions. The implied warranty was reinforced in the landmark case Jack Spring, Inc. v. Little, which held that landlords must maintain habitable conditions regardless of lease terms. Violations may entitle tenants to remedies such as rent abatement or lease termination.
Use the full Illinois guide for tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and remedies.