Buyers have many things to evaluate when buying a home. Things like the condition of the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, foundation, and other building components are the top things buyers are concerned with. Mold is a silent, often unseen issue with homes that many buyers are unaware of.
Mold can manifest itself in many forms. All types of mold need the same things to grow, moisture and dark spaces. Areas like this include attics, crawl spaces, and basements. These areas are prone to moisture problems through the lack of ventilation or leaks from the structure or the plumbing. Mold will not only cause structural problems with the home, but also have health implications to you and your family.
If you are already seeing mold in your home, chances are the problem is more extensive and will require major repairs or renovations to remove the mold. At this point the best thing you can do is contact a contractor that is certified in mold removal.
The most likely places for mold to form are anywhere that moisture is improperly vented. Potential problems would also occur if the home became flooded and was not completely or properly cleaned and dried after. Leaky plumbing from kitchens and bathrooms and damp basements are other likely candidates.
When an inspector checks your home, he may use a moisture meter or a thermal imaging camera. Tools like these allow the inspector to find moisture problems that may not be visible with the naked eye. If moisture levels of 20% or higher are discovered in the home mold could be present as this is an ideal situation for mold to grow.
Closing Comments
Be proactive if you feel your home is susceptible to mold or has experienced moisture problems in the past. You should get your home inspected annually by a certified mold inspector. Staying on top of the situation will not only save you repair dollars but also protect you familys health.
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