Toxic Mold-Home Value and Personal Health

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Toxic Mold-Home Value and Personal Health

Posted In: Real Estate News*

http://www.foreclosureapps.com/2008/09/11/toxic-mold-home-value-and-

personal-health/

Stachybotrys chartarum is a highly toxic form of mold and is the

source of severe health problems for many Americans without their

knowledge. It can grow in a home undetected, so home buyer's must be

aware of the potential for this health hazard while searching for a

property The toxic type of mold is slimy, black and green. It grows

on wood, drywall, and paper. It will grow in damp, humid areas, but

will not grow on cement. The other locations that this type of mold

can be located is in a bathroom that has not been vented in the

correct manner, or in a laundry room with a dryer that has faulty

venting. Another place that mold pops up is anywhere that has

experienced water damage from flooding or a leaky water pipe. Living

in a home with toxic mold can make your very sick. It will also

cause permanent damage to whatever surface it is currently growing

on. Older homes are particularly prone to mold problems because of

aged pipes, foundational issues or long term water damage.

A home that has been infiltrated with toxic mold is not a healthy

environment in which to live. Mold is a fungus that reproduces

itself through airborne spores. These tiny spores will float through

the air until they find somewhere moist to land, where they may

grow. The problem with toxic mold is that it also produces a

byproduct known as mycotoxins. Studies have shown that mycotoxins

can magnify breathing problems, such as asthma, in individuals that

are already suffering with a respiratory ailment. Also, normally

healthy individuals can develop respiratory illnesses after

prolonged contact with mycotoxins.

Mold usually has a distinctive odor, but this smell may at times go

undetected. It can also be a challenge to notice a mold problem when

you are viewing a home before purchase. You can have a home tested

before buying to ensure that there is not a mold issue. If a home is

older, you should definitely have it tested before you buy. If mold

is found in the home, you can still purchase the house, but you

first need to insist that the property is professionally treated for

the mold problem. You can have the issue addressed in the contract

and if there remains a problem, you will not be legally obligated to

buy. If only a minor mold problem is found, the affected areas need

to be washed in soap and water and then disinfected with a bleach

solution. This will prevent the mold from spreading. After you move

into the house, keep all damp areas ventilated to prevent

infiltration. If an area is subjected to a water leak, clean the

water spill as quickly as possible. If needed, utilize a

dehumidifier to control dampness.