How to Prevent Mold and Mildew

To help prevent mold and mildew growth:

• Do not open windows while heating or cooling units are operating.  This will cause condensation and may contribute to mold growth.
• Do not leave wet or damp clothes, towels, or shoes in closets.  Set them out on drying racks until completely dry.
• Do not place potted plants or any other source of moisture on or around heating and cooling units.
• Do not block the airflow from your heating or cooling unit.
• Maintain a reasonable room temperature year-round (70 - 76 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Do not place heat-generating appliances such as microwaves or refrigerators directly underneath the room thermostat.

Mold FAQS

Reporting

How do I report a mold or mildew concern? 

Submit a FixIt request as soon as you notice a concern. This creates the official work order, enables tracking and communication, and allows authorized entry consistent with your Housing Contract and university policy. 

Do you want photos or a video? Can I add info later? 

Yes. Clear photos/video and a brief description (location, size, odor, any recent leaks/spills) help us triage appropriately. After submitting, you can reply to your FixIt confirmation email to add details or additional photos.  

How do I find my ticket number? 

Your ticket number appears in the FixIt confirmation email. If you can’t locate it, email fixit.housing@ttu.edu and we can assist. 

Response & Access 

How soon will someone come by, and do I need to schedule an appointment? 

An initial assessment typically occurs within 2–3 business days (excluding weekends/University holidays). To respond equitably and efficiently, we generally do not schedule individual appointments for the first visit. Your FixIt request authorizes entry during normal service hours in accordance with your Housing Contract. 

What hours do you visit rooms, and what if I’m in class or asleep? 

We generally visit 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. If you are away or resting, trained personnel may enter following our entry protocol (knock, announce, enter). We will leave a door tag and update your ticket. If future work requires your presence (for example, packing personal items before containment), we will coordinate a reasonable window. 

What to Expect During a Visit 

Who’s coming, and what will they do? 

A facilities technician will evaluate visible areas, check for moisture, and review HVAC/ventilation. If the issue is minor and surface-level, they may treat it during the visit. If specialized work is warranted, we will explain the reason, outline next steps, and consult the Texas Tech Environmental Health & Safety team as appropriate. 

How long will you be in my room? 

Visit length varies. Minor cleaning may be completed the same day. If remediation (e.g., material repair/replacement) is required, work may span several days to a few weeks; complex projects can take 4–6 weeks or longer depending on scope and parts/vendor availability. We will share the plan and provide updates via your TTU email.  

How will you handle my belongings and privacy? 

We ask residents to remove or cover personal items near the work area when feasible. Staff will take reasonable steps to protect nearby surfaces and will document the work performed.  

Inspection & Testing 

What do you check? 

We review visible surfaces (walls, ceilings, windows, bathrooms), identify moisture sources, and evaluate HVAC airflow/filters. We will differentiate common bathroom mildew from broader moisture problems and will explain our observations.  

Do you take air or surface samples, and when?  

If sampling is warranted, tests are performed by a qualified environmental laboratory. Turnaround is typically about one week after the lab receives samples, but timing may vary. 

Health & Safety

Do I need to leave my room if I suspect mold? 

In general, you may remain in your room unless Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) or University officials determine the space is unsafe. If that determination is made, we will contact you with the next steps and help coordinate temporary on-campus accommodation.

What should I do if I suspect mold?

Please do not touch or attempt to clean the area yourself. Keep the area dry and clear of belongings, avoid blocking vents, and run bathroom exhaust fans during/after showers where provided. These steps help us assess conditions accurately and reduce moisture.  Large mold issues are not typical and that relocations/construction are not likely.

What if I have health concerns?

For any health concerns (i.e., allergies, asthma, headaches, sensitivities), contact Student Health Services or your medical provider. Housing and Facilities staff cannot provide medical advice or diagnosis.

HVAC, Air & Humidity 

Can I get a dehumidifier or air purifier? 

If conditions warrant, Housing may deploy temporary equipment. Personal dehumidifiers or air purifiers are generally permitted. Residents are responsible for proper operation and maintenance.  

Moving / Temporary Relocation 

When do you move people to another room, and how fast can that happen? 

Temporary relocation is uncommon and considered when necessary for health, safety, or efficient remediation, subject to space availability. Timeframes vary by circumstances; if relocation is approved, we will provide instructions and an estimated timeline for return. 

Money & Charges 

Will I be charged for any of this? Could I get a cleaning or damage fee? 

There is no charge for Housing-directed inspection and remediation. Charges may apply if damage results from misuse/neglect, if clear instructions are disregarded, or if failure to report allows a condition to worsen. If you have questions about potential charges, please reach out to us at housing@ttu.edu.  

If I’m relocated, does my housing bill change? 

Temporary relocations for remediation generally do not change your housing charge. If you are permanently relocated, any billing impact will be discussed with you in advance.

What about my personal property? 

Residents are responsible for their personal belongings and the cleaning of personal items. Consider renters’ insurance to protect against loss. If circumstances suggest a University-caused issue, requests for credits/reimbursements are reviewed through established processes on a case-by-case basis. A decision will be communicated in writing. 

Remediation (Very Rare Cases) 

 In rare instances, additional work may be required to ensure a complete repair in compliance with safety guidance and industry standards.  If you are impacted, our team will ensure that you are made aware of next steps.