A sudden evacuation of a six‑story state office building in Biloxi, Mississippi, has underscored just how disruptive hidden mold contamination can be. On August 15, hundreds of employees were ordered to leave the Bolton State Office Building on Bayview Avenue after a black‑mold problem was detected in the facility. The building houses multiple agencies, including Mississippi’s departments of marine resources, health, environmental quality and revenue, as well as the Gaming Commission and the emergency management agency. State officials said between 300 and 400 workers were affected and will be working remotely or relocated while extensive testing and remediation take place.
What Happened
Officials discovered mold behind the building’s HVAC units during a recent equipment replacement. Although plastic barriers and targeted cleaning were attempted, reports of headaches, sinus problems and other health complaints continued to mount. Concerned that ventilation systems on the third through sixth floors could be spreading spores, the state ordered the entire facility closed by noon on Friday. Air‑quality tests are now underway, and leaders estimate that remediation, if required, could take three to four months.
The Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration, which owns the building, has not provided a firm reopening date. The marine resources department alone has 140 employees in the facility, and other agencies have now shifted operations to temporary offices or remote work. State leaders stressed that they are acting out of an abundance of caution to protect workers’ health and prevent further contamination.
Why Mold Matters to Business Owners
While this episode involves a government building, the lessons apply to any commercial property owner. Mold thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces, particularly behind walls and near HVAC systems. It can trigger respiratory illnesses, allergies and other health problems, leading to lost productivity, workers’ compensation claims and costly remediation. If contamination is severe, entire facilities may need to be shut down, resulting in relocation expenses and operational disruption.
Many property and general liability policies exclude damage caused by fungi or bacteria. Without specialized pollution legal liability coverage, business owners could be left paying for remediation and third‑party bodily injury claims out of pocket. Even where coverage exists, insurers typically require rigorous maintenance and prompt reporting of moisture problems. The Biloxi case highlights the importance of regular HVAC inspections, moisture control and indoor‑air‑quality monitoring in both new and older buildings.
Risk‑Management Takeaways
- Conduct routine inspections. HVAC systems, roofs and plumbing should be inspected regularly for leaks, condensation and microbial growth. Early detection can prevent minor problems from becoming major shutdowns.
- Document maintenance. Keeping records of maintenance and repairs helps demonstrate due diligence to regulators and insurers if contamination occurs.
- Control humidity. Buildings in humid climates should use dehumidifiers and ensure that air‑conditioning systems are sized correctly to prevent moisture buildup.
- Train staff. Workers should know how to recognize signs of mold and the importance of reporting them promptly.
- Review insurance coverage. Evaluate whether your property policy excludes mold or other pollution risks. Pollution liability insurance can cover cleanup costs, bodily injury claims and business interruption stemming from contamination.
The Bottom Line
The closure of a key state building due to black mold is a reminder that environmental hazards aren’t limited to high‑profile industrial spills. Hidden contamination in everyday office buildings can be just as disruptive and expensive. Proactive maintenance, rapid response to moisture problems and adequate insurance coverage are essential tools for businesses to manage mold risks and avoid costly shutdowns.