No one wants to buy a house when it has a mildew problem. Unfortunately, spores can grow in places that potential buyers cannot see such as around leaking pipes and between walls. If you are considering buying a home; learn about spore detection, request that specialized testing be done, require that the seller disclose all mildew issues, and stipulate that the problem, if any exists, be resolved before you purchase the house.

Begin The Process By Asking Your Home Inspection Professional About Possible Damage

If you have a home inspection professional inspect the premises before you buy the property, he or she may see obvious signs of water damage during their inspection of those less seen places. While it is not their job to look for spores, most home inspection professionals will mention noticeable signs of water damage and the possible presence of spores. Also, do not be afraid to ask the inspector if they saw signs of mildew or noticed potential problem areas and ask them to include their observations in their report.

Set Mold Testing As A Top Priority

For individuals who are sensitive to spores, a home inspection specialist’s observations may need to be augmented by a mold testing expert. While some species of spores are visible and will often times produce an offensive odor, others can grow in areas that are less noticeable such as in wall paneling and under ceiling tiles. Specialized testing can unearth a potential problem, pinpoint the source, and determine the severity of the situation through the use of air sampling; swab and tape lift sampling, moisture mapping, and thermal imaging.

Mold Remediation Options

If spore growth is recent and confined to a small area, the issue can be remedied by scrubbing the area with detergent followed by a solution of bleach and water and then allowed to thoroughly dry. For problems that have been allowed to exist for long periods of time, a remediation expert could be the best option. For elevated levels of mildew, a mold remediation company will eliminate spore sources, clean the air with specialized equipment, apply antimicrobial treatment to infected areas and areas that could become a possible source, and dispose of items that cannot be cleaned. After mold remediation has been completed, the company will run a clearance test to make sure the problem has been eradicated.

Addressing Remediation Before Purchasing A House

If you purchase a house and later discover it has a mildew problem, it will be too late to ask the seller to defray the costs for spore remediation and for fixing the damage. This is why it is important to have mold testing done before purchasing the property. If testing reveals mildew issues, the buyer can ask the seller to reduce their price to cover mold remediation costs or can ask the seller to remove the mildew before the contract is signed. Be alert; protect your interests from the beginning.