A: Mold and mildew grow in dark, damp environments, so you probably have a leak somewhere in the attic. Contact a certified water damage specialist to:

1. Find the source of the leak and repair it.
2. Sanitize the affected areas with antimicrobial.
3. Thoroughly dry the attic with heat, air-mover and dehumidifiers.
4. Replace any wood or drywall that has deteriorated (dry rot) from prolonged exposure to moisture.
5. You can also have a mold sample tested by an environmental testing company to find out exactly what kind of organism has been growing in your attic and the possible health consequences, if any.

Visit Home Advisor, become a member (it's free!) and be matched with the ideal service professional in your area to remove the mold and make the necessary repairs to keep your attic dry.

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com