Mold a Mounting Concern for Homeowners, Builders

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Mold a Mounting Concern for Homeowners, Builders

by Michele Dawson

Although the Center for Disease Control says that a link between

stachybotrys and more serious symptoms like memory loss or coughing up blood

can't be confirmed, several juries across the country have awarded

homeowners millions of dollars in connection with mold-contaminated homes

and serious health problems, prompting concern among homeowners and

homebuilders alike.

The source of concern centers on stachybotrys, a toxic mold that grows in

moist environments and has been found in all 50 states.

While most varieties of mold aren't dangerous, too much exposure to

stachybotrys can trigger asthma or hay fever -- at least in some people.

When inhaled or ingested, stachybotrys can cause nasal and sinus congestion,

coughing, wheezing, sore throat, skin and eye irritation, and upper

respiratory infections.

If you identify problems with a house you are thinking about buying or

renting, make sure the seller or landlord correct them before you move in.

Or, you may want to consider starting from square one and revive your search

efforts for a different house.

To stay on the safe side, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers

these tips when shopping for an existing house.

Hire a professional to check the heating and cooling system, including

humidifiers and vents. Check duct lining and insulation for growth.

Check for exhaust fans in the bathrooms and kitchen. If there are no vents,

the kitchen and bathrooms should each have at least one window. The cooktop

should have a hood vented outside. The clothes dryer vent should be outside.

All vents should lead outdoors rather than to attics or crawlspaces.

Look for obvious mold growth in attics, basements, and crawlspaces, and

around the foundation. See if there are many plants close to the house,

particularly if they are damp and rotting - they are a potential source of

biological pollutants. Downspouts from roof gutters should route water away

from the building.

Look for stains on the walls, floor or carpet (including any carpet over

concrete floors) as evidence of previous flooding or moisture problems. Is

there moisture on windows and surfaces? Are there signs of leaks or seepage

in the basement?

Look for rotted building materials. They may suggest moisture or water

damage.

Even if mold hasn't developed, moisture problems can lead to dry rot, which

can potentially cause structural damage to your home. And most insurance

companies don't cover mold damage, which is considered a home maintenance

problem, according to Insure.com.

If you find mold in your home, the Insurance Information Institute says it

can be cleaned before heavy damage sets in. The most effective way is to

correct the underlying water damage and then clean the affected area.

A solution of household bleach and water (1 part bleach, 10 parts water),

combined with a bit of dish soap usually does the trick. Be sure to wear a

mask and rubber gloves and open windows. Apply the mix to the moldy area,

scrub with a rag and then dispose of the rag. If the mold returns, you'll

need to investigate whether you have a leak. If the contamination is

extensive, you may need to consult a mold abatement specialist.

For more articles by Michele Dawson, please press here.

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No Sold If There's Mold

Based in California, Michele Dawson has extensive experience as a reporter

and editor and now specializes in housing and real estate matters