Is this black mold?

It is definitely black mold. Half bleach, half water. Spray, sit, scrub, repeat.

10 / 4. Is there any place in particular I need to sit?

::facepalm::

You love me!

Silly Kitty.. GA @Seek

Mold like that doesn’t form unless there are two factors involved: dampness and something for it to feed on. When it comes to a moldy wall, the “food” is usually the glue used to adhere wall paper/vinyl. Notice how there is no mold on the wall where it is painted, yet there is where the baseboard has been removed? Somehow, moisture was trapped between the wood and the wall.

Since the mold seems to be contained to a small area, it’s worth attempting to handle on your own vs. calling in professionals. However, it’s important to not take any risks that can involve a human or pet’s health. Mold spores are not something to deal with lightly.

Here is a link to Removing Mold from Walls/Baseboards. @Dutchess_III, if you are the one tasked with addressing this, I hope that you follow the instructions. Your health, especially after recently suffering from breathing problems, isn’t worth the risk.

And I’m sorry @Seek for having to disagree with you on this; spraying the wall is a risk factor. Wiping it down first will prevent mold spores from becoming airborne.

I am listening carefully @Pied_Pfeffer. However, common sense tells me that wiping the spot while it’s dry would be more likely to release the spoors than wiping it down after it’s been wetted. Kind of like kicking dust vs kicking mud. Is that wrong?

@Dutchess_III All I know comes from what was being taught by experts in mold identification and removal when I was working in the hotel industry, and specifically when it came to inspection training.

For a small spot like in the photo, just take a wet cloth and slowly wipe down the infected area first. It’s much like wiping down a very dusty surface, only deadlier, thus the safety equipment.

Thank you @Pied_Pfeffer. I am proceeding with caution. I need to get some rubber gloves.

The bitch is, it may extend behind the fireplace seat that you see on the right…..

@Dutchess_III The fireplace seat doesn’t show up in the photo posted. If it’s a concern, it’s worth checking. Just please proceed with caution.

Yes, it’s black mold.
My son found the only solution is to remove the wallboard, and replace it with greenboard.

Really wouldn’t mess around. Black mold can be very dangerous. I would definitely call a professional to check it out.

The oak piece on the right is the base to the fireplace seat.

Update

Putting in a whole new hearth. Thanks honey. Kind of wish we’d caught the mold in 2012, before I to sick and almost DIED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’ll bet a hundred bucks that’s what caused it.