ABSTRACT
Microbiological contamination of water-damaged buildings is frequent and nearly always ends up in health problems for their inhabitants. The following chapter presents allergic, infectious and toxic health effects, and other non-specific symptoms associated with occupying microbiologically contaminated indoor spaces. Possible ways of spreading and transport of harmful microorganisms in indoor environments have been characterised. Special attention has been paid to molds, actinomycetes and Gram-negative bacteria, which in colonising construction and finishing materials cause not only their bio-corrosion but also, by providing a range of harmful, immunologically reactive structures and substances, provoke adverse health outcomes in exposed individuals. This chapter has also focused on the problem of odour nuisance caused by volatile organic compounds produced by microorganisms, and their impact on human health.
