'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20outer%20ring%20--%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='80'%20fill='none'%20stroke='%23ffffff'%20stroke-width='8'%20opacity='0.25'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20needle%20-%20North%20(gold)%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M128%2056%20L144%20128%20L128%20116%20L112%20128%20Z'%20fill='url(%23accent)'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20needle%20-%20South%20(white)%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M128%20200%20L144%20128%20L128%20140%20L112%20128%20Z'%20fill='%23ffffff'%20opacity='0.85'/%3e%3c!--%20Center%20circle%20--%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='12'%20fill='url(%23accent)'/%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='6'%20fill='%230d4a4f'/%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Overview
With 14.3 inches of annual rainfall and an average temperature of 48.2 F, Billings experiences infrequent rain but high sensitivity to leaks when storms hit.
Montana climate patterns, from seasonal storms to humidity shifts, interact with local conditions to influence indoor mold risk.
Billings has cold winters and warm summers, so moisture risk shifts from winter condensation to spring snowmelt.
Billings Code Enforcement handles property maintenance and code compliance concerns.
This guide highlights local moisture drivers, seasonal risk, and prevention steps. For legal rights and landlord obligations, review the Montana mold laws guide.
Sources: [Montana | Britannica] | [Billings Code Enforcement] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BILLINGS LOGAN INTL AP, MT US]
Action Checklist
Billings Home Inspection Checklist
Common construction types in Billings affect where moisture problems develop. Here is how local building patterns shape what to inspect.
In Billings, code Enforcement responds to property maintenance concerns and inspections.
Documenting moisture issues helps support inspection follow up.
Sources: [Billings Code Enforcement]
- Low rainfall of 14.3 inches in Billings means roofs and window seals often go unchecked. Inspect after each storm.
- Roof flashing, gutters, and downspout extensions.
- Attic insulation and ventilation near eaves.
- Basement walls, sump pits, and floor drains.
- Window frames and sills with condensation.
- Bathroom exhaust fans and vent ducts.
- Water heater pans and nearby floor drains.
- Laundry hoses and shutoff valves.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BILLINGS LOGAN INTL AP, MT US]
Warning Signs of Mold in Billings
Watch for these signs that moisture is lingering in Billings homes and rentals:
- At an annual average of 48.2 F, Billings homes that show condensation on windows during warm months likely have an indoor moisture problem.
- Condensation that returns on windows each morning.
- Musty odors in basements or closets.
- Peeling paint near baseboards.
- Dark spotting near ceiling corners.
- Soft drywall around tubs or showers.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BILLINGS LOGAN INTL AP, MT US]
Mold Risk Factors in Billings
These are the most common moisture drivers for homes and rentals in Billings:
- Low rainfall of 14.3 inches annually means Billings mold problems typically trace back to plumbing failures and HVAC moisture, not rain.
- Freeze thaw cycles can open gaps around roof flashing and siding.
- Snowmelt and ice dams can leak at roof edges.
- Spring rain after snowmelt can keep basements damp.
- Condensation builds on windows during cold snaps.
- Plumbing leaks in heated spaces can stay hidden inside walls.
Sources: [Montana | Britannica] | [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BILLINGS LOGAN INTL AP, MT US]
Billings Seasonal Risk Calendar
Winter
A 48.2 F yearly average means furnaces run heavily. Condensation on cold surfaces is common without consistent airflow.
Spring
Snowmelt and rain keep basements damp. Check sump pumps.
Summer
Cool summers still bring rain. Inspect roof edges after storms.
Fall
Early freezes test roof edges and window seals.
Sources: [Montana | Britannica] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BILLINGS LOGAN INTL AP, MT US]
Billings Moisture Playbook
Use this short playbook to stay ahead of common moisture problems in Billings.
After a Leak
Stop the leak, remove wet materials within 24 to 48 hours, and dry the area with fans and dehumidification.
Monthly Maintenance
Check under sinks, clear condensate lines, and log basement humidity.
Seasonal Tune Up
Pre-storm prep matters with 14.3 inches of annual rain. Seal gaps, clear drains, and be ready to dry out quickly after any rainfall.
Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - BILLINGS LOGAN INTL AP, MT US]
Mold Prevention in Billings
Use these priorities to keep indoor humidity low and avoid recurring growth:
- Despite only 14.3 inches of annual rainfall, seal window and door gaps before storms to prevent water intrusion.
- 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 - BILLINGS LOGAN INTL AP, MT US]
State Laws and Rights
Montana mold law snapshot
Montana has mold-specific rules in addition to general habitability standards.
Montana has a strong implied warranty of habitability under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977 (MCA 70-24-303). Landlords must comply with all applicable building and housing codes materially affecting health and safety, make all necessary repairs to keep the property fit and habitable, maintain electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, and kitchen facilities in safe working condition, keep common areas clean and safe, provide waste disposal, and supply running water and hot water at all times. Landlords must also supply reasonable heat from October 1 through May 1, and must install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Use the full Montana guide for tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and remedies.