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Tacoma, Washington mold guide

Mold Guide for Tacoma, Washington

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

State law data last updated: 2026-02-02

Overview

NOAA records show Tacoma averaging 42.0 inches of rain and 51.9 F annually, meaning it sees a mix of wet spells and dry breaks.

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

Tacoma has a marine-influenced climate with wet winters and mild summers, so moisture can linger on building exteriors.

Code Compliance responds to community reports and enforces municipal code requirements.

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

Sources: [Washington - Climate | Britannica] | [Tacoma Code Compliance Services] | [NOAA Climate Normals - TACOMA NARROWS AP, WA US]

Action Checklist

Get free access to the full guide

8-step checklist for immediate action

Tacoma Home Inspection Checklist

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

In Tacoma, code Compliance responds to community reports and investigates code violations.

The team enforces municipal code requirements for property maintenance and nuisance issues.

Sources: [Tacoma Code Compliance Services]

  • With about 42.0 inches of annual rainfall, Tacoma homes benefit from routine gutter cleaning and roof drainage checks.
  • Roof flashing, gutters, and downspout extensions.
  • Siding joints, window seals, and exterior caulk.
  • Crawlspace vents and vapor barriers.
  • Basement walls and floor drains.
  • Bathroom exhaust fans and vent ducts.
  • HVAC condensate lines and drip pans.
  • Under sink plumbing and cabinet bases.

Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - TACOMA NARROWS AP, WA US]

Warning Signs of Mold in Tacoma

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

  • Condensation forming on glass during Tacoma warm seasons (average temp 51.9 F) suggests indoor humidity needs attention.
  • Musty odors after long rainy stretches.
  • Condensation that persists on windows or mirrors.
  • Peeling paint near baseboards or window trim.
  • Dark staining around ceiling corners.
  • Soft drywall around tubs or showers.

Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - TACOMA NARROWS AP, WA US]

Mold Risk Factors in Tacoma

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

  • At about 42.0 inches of rain per year, Tacoma storm events and small leaks both matter.
  • Persistent winter rain keeps siding and roofs damp.
  • Cool temperatures slow drying after leaks.
  • Marine humidity keeps indoor moisture elevated.
  • Hillside runoff can push water toward foundations.
  • Crawlspaces can stay damp without ventilation.

Sources: [Washington - Climate | Britannica] | [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - TACOMA NARROWS AP, WA US]

Tacoma Seasonal Risk Calendar

Winter

At 51.9 F annually, long heating seasons push warm air against cold surfaces. Keep air moving to reduce condensation.

Spring

Lingering rain and cool temperatures slow drying on shaded lots.

Summer

Cool summers still bring rain. Inspect roof edges after storms.

Fall

Early rains return. Recheck roof valleys and porch flashing.

Sources: [Washington - Climate | Britannica] | [NOAA Climate Normals - TACOMA NARROWS AP, WA US]

Tacoma Moisture Playbook

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

After a Leak

Stop the leak, remove wet materials within 24 to 48 hours, and dry the area with airflow.

Monthly Maintenance

Inspect crawlspaces, clear condensate lines, and log indoor humidity.

Seasonal Tune Up

Before storm season, clear gutters and inspect flashing; about 42.0 inches of annual precipitation means small leaks can add up.

Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - TACOMA NARROWS AP, WA US]

Mold Prevention in Tacoma

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

  • At 42.0 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.
  • Clear gutters and direct downspouts away from foundations.
  • Inspect window seals before the wet season.
  • Service HVAC condensate drains annually.

Sources: [EPA Mold, Moisture, and Your Home] | [NOAA Climate Normals - TACOMA NARROWS AP, WA US]

Local Regulations

Some cities in Washington publish additional housing rules or enforcement guidance that can affect mold complaints.

Local regulations are available with the Mold Toolkit

1 city-specific regulations

State Laws and Rights

Washington mold law snapshot

Washington has mold-specific rules in addition to general habitability standards.

Washington law establishes an implied warranty of habitability through RCW 59.18.060. Landlords must maintain premises fit for human habitation at all times during the tenancy. This includes keeping the property in substantial compliance with applicable codes affecting tenant health or safety, maintaining structural components in reasonably good repair, providing adequate weatherproofing, and maintaining plumbing, heating, and ventilation systems in reasonably good working order. While mold itself is not explicitly listed as a habitability violation, landlords must fix the conditions that cause mold: water leaks, moisture problems, and inadequate ventilation.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the first signs of mold in a Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
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.
Are coastal homes in Tacoma more prone to mold?
Fog, wind-driven rain, and elevated humidity put coastal homes at higher risk. Focus on ventilation, dehumidification, and exterior maintenance. Check our room-by-room guide.
How does salt air affect mold growth in Tacoma?
Salt air keeps humidity high and can wear down seals and caulk. Inspect exterior joints and ventilate crawl spaces regularly. See our prevention guide.
Does Tacoma humidity make mold more likely?
High outdoor humidity slows drying after leaks, which raises risk. Active ventilation and dehumidification are key. Review prevention priorities for humid climates.
What should I do about mold after a Tacoma storm?
Stop the water source, remove wet materials within 48 hours, and run fans and dehumidifiers. Photograph damage for insurance. See the storm recovery guide.