The New Year is all about fresh starts — new goals, new routines, and a renewed focus on health. While many resolutions focus on diet and fitness, one area that often gets overlooked is the health of your home itself.
January is actually one of the best times to assess hidden environmental issues like moisture, mold, and indoor air quality. Catching problems early can help protect your property, your indoor air, and your family’s health throughout the new year.
Here are five environmental checks every homeowner should make at the start of the New Year.
1. Check Indoor Humidity Levels
Excess moisture is the #1 driver of mold growth. During winter, closed windows, humidifiers, and daily activities like cooking and showering can quickly push humidity too high.
What to do:
- Use a hygrometer to check humidity in living areas and basements
- Aim to keep indoor humidity between 35–50%
- Watch for condensation on windows and cold surfaces
According to the EPA, controlling moisture is essential for preventing mold growth in homes.
🔗 https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-moisture-and-your-home
2. Look for Hidden Moisture After the Holidays
The holidays bring extra guests, extra cooking, and extra showers — all of which increase indoor moisture.
Inspect common problem areas:
- Under sinks
- Around toilets and tubs
- Behind appliances
- Window sills and frames
- Basement corners
Even small leaks or damp spots can lead to mold if left unaddressed in the new year.
3. Inspect High-Risk Mold Areas
Some areas of the home are more prone to mold than others, especially in winter.
Pay close attention to:
- Bathrooms without proper ventilation
- Attics and crawlspaces
- Basements
- Laundry rooms
- Behind furniture placed against exterior walls
If you notice musty odors, staining, or recurring spots, it may indicate mold growth beyond what you can see. A keen eye is important for the new year.
4. Assess Ventilation and Airflow
Poor ventilation traps moisture and allows contaminants to circulate indoors.
New Year ventilation check:
- Make sure bathroom and kitchen fans are working and venting outdoors
- Replace HVAC filters
- Ensure vents and returns aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs
The CDC notes that proper ventilation plays a key role in reducing moisture and mold indoors.
🔗 https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mold
5. Schedule a Professional Environmental Inspection
Even if everything looks fine, some of the most serious issues are hidden behind walls, under floors, or inside HVAC systems.
A professional inspection can:
- Identify hidden mold growth
- Detect moisture problems early
- Provide baseline data for your home’s condition
- Offer peace of mind for the year ahead
Starting the new year with clear information helps prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs later.
Make a Healthier Home Part of Your New Year Goals
A healthy home supports better sleep, better air quality, and better overall well-being. Taking time now to check moisture, ventilation, and potential mold issues sets the foundation for a safer, healthier year ahead.
If you’re unsure about what’s happening inside your home — or simply want peace of mind — professional environmental testing is a smart way to start the year with confidence. New habits for a healthier living space can begin with the new year.