Angie's List: 3 toxins that may be in your home

Your home is your castle.

But too many times that castle has dangerous toxins lurking inside, according to our partners at the consumer guide Angie's List.

The most common these days: Mold. Rebecca Shotz had a mold spot in her carpet that grew out of control.

"I had it patched, and a few months later, I found mushrooms in the carpet," she said. "Then I realized it was a much larger area, and when I realized it was growing mushrooms, I was more concerned.  And I had a company come out."

Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List, says the three biggest toxins that remediation companies battle these days are:

Mold

Radon

Asbestos

She says todays tightly sealed homes are a breeding ground for mold.

"There's a minimal level of mold in every house.  And you may find it in your bathroom or basement.  But the key here is keeping it at a minimal level,"  Hicks said.  Once it seems out of control, she says you need to call a pro.

She says if it keeps spreading, call a pro.

Meantime, if a test shows you have a high level of radon, you will need a basement venting system installed for around $800, Hicks said

And homes built before 1970 usually have asbestos around furnaces and in flooring: Angie says as long as you you don't touch it, it's fine.

Removing it is a job left to professionals.
    
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