
Overview
At 31.6 inches of yearly rain and an average of 46.9 F, Bloomington experiences a mix of wet spells experiences and dry breaks.
Because Minnesota experiences a range of climate conditions, statewide humidity trends and storm patterns also influence indoor moisture levels.
Bloomington shares the Twin Cities pattern of cold winters and warm, humid summers, so moisture risk swings from ice dams to summer humidity.
Bloomington Code Enforcement responds to property maintenance issues and inspections.
This guide highlights local moisture drivers, seasonal risk, and prevention steps. For legal rights and landlord obligations, review the Minnesota mold laws guide.
Sources: [Minnesota Climate | Britannica] | [Bloomington Code Enforcement] | [NOAA Climate Normals - MINNEAPOLIS/ST PAUL AP, MN US]
Action Checklist
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, code Enforcement handles property maintenance complaints and inspections.
Documented moisture damage helps support follow up inspections.
Sources: [Bloomington Code Enforcement]
- Bloomington gets roughly 31.6 inches of precipitation per year. Schedule gutter, roof, and drainage inspections seasonally.
- Roof flashing, gutters, and downspout extensions.
- Attic insulation and ventilation near eaves.
- Basement walls, sump pits, and floor drains.
- Window sills with winter condensation.
- Bathroom fans venting outdoors.
- Water heater pans and HVAC condensate lines.
- Laundry hoses and shutoff valves.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - MINNEAPOLIS/ST PAUL AP, MN 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 46.9 F) often signals excess indoor humidity.
- Condensation on windows that returns 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 - MINNEAPOLIS/ST PAUL AP, MN US]
Mold Risk Factors in Bloomington
These are the most common moisture drivers for homes and rentals in Bloomington:
- With roughly 31.6 inches of annual rainfall in Bloomington, storm events and small leaks both matter.
- Snowmelt and ice dams can leak into attic edges.
- Freeze thaw cycles stress roof flashing and exterior joints.
- Humid summers raise indoor moisture without dehumidification.
- Condensation builds on windows during cold snaps.
- Basements can stay damp after heavy rain.
Sources: [Minnesota Climate | Britannica] | [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - MINNEAPOLIS/ST PAUL AP, MN US]
Bloomington Seasonal Risk Calendar
Winter
At 46.9 F annually, long heating seasons push warm air against cold surfaces. Keep air moving to reduce condensation.
Spring
Thaw and rain keep basements damp. Check sump pumps.
Summer
Cool summers still bring rain. Inspect roof edges after storms.
Fall
Storms return. Recheck roof edges and window seals.
Sources: [Minnesota Climate | Britannica] | [NOAA Climate Normals - MINNEAPOLIS/ST PAUL AP, MN 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 within 24 to 48 hours, and dry the area with airflow.
Monthly Maintenance
Inspect under sinks, clear condensate lines, and log basement humidity.
Seasonal Tune Up
Before storm season, clear gutters and inspect flashing; about 31.6 inches of annual precipitation means small leaks can add up.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - MINNEAPOLIS/ST PAUL AP, MN US]
Mold Prevention in Bloomington
Use these priorities to keep indoor humidity low and avoid recurring growth:
- Keep gutters clear and downspouts extended to manage the 31.6 inches of precipitation this area receives each year.
- Maintain indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent.
- Dry wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.
- Vent bathrooms and kitchens outdoors.
- Clear gutters and direct downspouts away from foundations.
- Inspect roof flashing and window seals before storm seasons.
- Service HVAC condensate drains annually.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - MINNEAPOLIS/ST PAUL AP, MN US]
State Laws and Rights
Minnesota mold law snapshot
Minnesota does not have a mold-specific statute, but habitability rules still apply.
Under Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.161, landlords have an implied covenant in every residential lease that the premises and all common areas are fit for the use intended by the parties. Landlords must keep the premises in reasonable repair during the term of the lease, maintain compliance with applicable health and safety laws, and keep premises reasonably energy efficient. These covenants cannot be waived by tenants and apply to all residential leases concluded or renewed since June 15, 1971. Recent 2023 legislative amendments expanded habitability protections to include common areas and added extermination requirements.
Use the full Minnesota guide for tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and remedies.