Mold | Is it the Boogie Man?

Disclaimer:  This is my OPINION based on my observations as a real estate professional with years of experience in investing and property management.

 

MOLD is and can be an issue if left unchecked.  It can also be EXPLOITED in the market place when we are not knowledgable.  

 

I have seen remediation companies (UDK, ServPro, ServiceMaster and many others) sometimes go overboard on homes to 'address' water damage with MOLD as the fulcrum ESPECIALLY when they can bill an INSURANCE carrier.  If the owner doesn't want to file a claim, I have seen their concerns of MOLD disapear and their restoration approach change dramatically.  This is not to say these firms do not perform a valuable service - they can and I have seen that too.  Here is a short video I posted online that demonstrates a common OVER REACTION to mold:

 

 

I have seen instances when MOLD was discovered and needed remediation once in the past 20 years.  I have seen MOLD often where it just needed common sense hundreds of times and even more when it just needed some good old fashion house cleaning.

 

The most common molds in Southern Utah are:  Alternaria, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Aspergillus

 

Can 'Black Mold' (Stachybotrys Chartarum) be found here YES.  (Less Common)

 

Best solutions:

 

1.  Find the source of the moisture - fix that first.

2.  Clean it up.  Solid surfaces - spray with vinagar (better than bleach - kills, but tends not to stain/discolor).  For pouris surfaces (Drywall/Carpet)  IF the mold was growing IN it - toss it out.  If it was on the surface, or just got wet, use your judgement and try cleaning it first.  If it comes back - toss it out.  (Bag, seal is best)

3.  Keep it dry and change the air filters in your home.  

4.  If you have access to it, run an Ozonator in your home - clean the air.

 

DO - Be observant.  Your nose knows.  If there remains a musty smell after or if your eyes are red/itchy, you cough etc. remidiate more.

DO - Protect yourself.  IF you have a low immune system or compromised health issues, use protective gear accordingly or engage others to address the issues.

DO - Ask lots of good questions, but keep your FEAR in check. This is where those remediation companies CAN be an asset - engage them as an consultants to test and evaluate.  

 

How you address MOLD can be the difference between a few dollars to a small fortune or an insurance claim.  

 

Remember - MOLD is everywhere.  The little spores are in dust, dirt and the air.  We touch and breath it all the time.  Its when the conditions are right that it busts out and becomes an issue. 

 

At least once a quarter you should check areas of the home where water or moisture can be an issue - just a quick look or a sniff with your nose can detect and catch issues before they get out of hand.  Clean your living often and storage places at least 2 x a year.