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Bloomington, Indiana mold guide

Mold Guide for Bloomington, Indiana

Local mold risk drivers, seasonal priorities, and next steps for homeowners and renters in Bloomington.

State law data last updated: 2026-02-02

Overview

At 46.9 inches of yearly rain and an average of 53.8 F, Bloomington experiences frequent wet weather.

Indiana climate patterns, from seasonal storms to humidity shifts, interact with local conditions to influence indoor mold risk.

Bloomington has four seasons with humid summers and cold winters, so moisture risks shift by season.

Bloomington HAND handles yard and property maintenance complaints with compliance inspections.

Bloomington’s Housing and Neighborhood Development department enforces municipal housing and rental inspection codes.

This guide highlights local moisture drivers, seasonal risk, and prevention steps. For legal rights and landlord obligations, review the Indiana mold laws guide.

Sources: [Indiana Climate | Britannica] | [Bloomington Trash and Yard Violations] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BLOOMINGTON MONROE CO AP, IN US] | [Housing and Neighborhood Development - City of Bloomington, IN]

Action Checklist

Get free access to the full guide

8-step checklist for immediate action

Bloomington Home Inspection Checklist

Common construction types in Bloomington affect where moisture problems develop. Here is how local building patterns shape what to inspect.

In Bloomington, bloomington HAND provides a process for maintenance complaints and compliance inspections.

Documenting moisture damage helps support follow up inspections.

Sources: [Bloomington Trash and Yard Violations]

  • With 46.9 inches of annual rain, Bloomington homes need attic and basement checks after every heavy storm.
  • Attic insulation and roof flashing after snow.
  • Basement corners and sump pump pits.
  • Window frames and sills with condensation.
  • 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 - BLOOMINGTON MONROE CO AP, IN US]

Warning Signs of Mold in Bloomington

Watch for these signs that moisture is lingering in Bloomington homes and rentals:

  • Window condensation that persists during warm weather in Bloomington (average temperature 53.8 F) often signals excess indoor humidity.
  • 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 - BLOOMINGTON MONROE CO AP, IN US]

Mold Risk Factors in Bloomington

These are the most common moisture drivers for homes and rentals in Bloomington:

  • With 46.9 inches of annual precipitation in Bloomington, water intrusion through roofs, windows, and foundation joints requires ongoing attention.
  • 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 during cold nights.
  • Plumbing leaks can linger in utility rooms.

Sources: [Indiana Climate | Britannica] | [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BLOOMINGTON MONROE CO AP, IN US]

Bloomington Seasonal Risk Calendar

Winter

Heating systems work most of the year at 53.8 F average. Ventilate consistently to prevent moisture buildup on cold surfaces.

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: [Indiana Climate | Britannica] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BLOOMINGTON MONROE CO AP, IN US]

Bloomington Moisture Playbook

Use this short playbook to stay ahead of common moisture problems in Bloomington.

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

Clear gutters and inspect flashing before heavy rain arrives. At 46.9 inches yearly, maintaining 30 to 50 percent indoor humidity helps prevent growth.

Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BLOOMINGTON MONROE CO AP, IN US]

Mold Prevention in Bloomington

Use these priorities to keep indoor humidity low and avoid recurring growth:

  • Annual rainfall near 46.9 inches makes gutter maintenance and proper downspout drainage a top prevention priority.
  • 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 - BLOOMINGTON MONROE CO AP, IN US]

State Laws and Rights

Indiana mold law snapshot

Indiana does not have a mold-specific statute, but habitability rules still apply.

Indiana Code 32-31-8-5 establishes the implied warranty of habitability, requiring landlords to deliver rental premises in a safe, clean, and habitable condition. Landlords must comply with all applicable health and housing codes, maintain common areas in a clean and proper condition, and provide and maintain electrical systems, plumbing systems with adequate hot and cold running water, sanitary systems, and HVAC systems with adequate heat. This warranty cannot be waived by contract. The Indiana Supreme Court affirmed these protections in Rainbow Realty Group, Inc. v. Carter (2019), holding that landlords cannot contract around habitability requirements.

Use the full Indiana guide for tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the first signs of mold in a Bloomington home?
Musty odors, condensation on windows, peeling paint, and dark spots near vents or ceilings are common early signs. If symptoms persist after cleaning, schedule an inspection.
When should I hire a mold professional in Bloomington?
If the affected area is larger than about 10 square feet, if growth returns after cleaning, or if anyone has health symptoms, hire a pro. Use the DIY vs pro guide to decide.
Do ice dams cause mold in Bloomington homes?
Ice dams trap snowmelt on roofs, which can seep into attics and walls. Proper attic ventilation and insulation help prevent them. See attic mold prevention.
How does winter condensation lead to mold in Bloomington?
Warm indoor air meeting cold surfaces creates condensation on windows and in attics. Run exhaust fans and check for wet insulation. Review prevention strategies.
Do temperature swings in Bloomington cause mold?
Large temperature changes can cause condensation in attics and crawl spaces. Seal penetrations and maintain balanced airflow. See our attic mold guide.
Can I test for mold myself in Bloomington?
DIY test kits are a starting point, but they do not replace a professional inspection. Learn the trade-offs in our DIY vs professional testing guide.