Mold is found throughout nature (scientists estimate between 50,000-250,000 species), so there is really no need to be fearful about the mere mention of mold. The major concerns are with certain types of mold (about 200 species are described as pathogens) that exert health effects either by infection, release of toxins, or through allergic responses which can vary tremendously from one person to another. Unfortunately, there is a tendency for these harmful forms of mold to grow on materials in your own home, particularly when there are moist conditions. And the only way to accurately identify these types of mold is through a mold investigation.