Mold is a major health risk. We all know this. But in this special ABC News report, the health risk to babies from what is known as "bleeding lungs" should be a major concern for anyone thinking of buying a Columbia SC home.
Be advised, getting a home inspection before you buy has always been strongly recommended. But normal home inspections may not reveal mold if it is hidden.
As you saw in the video, mold can be behind wallboard, and not even visible to an inspector's eye.
Most home inspectors will look for moisture, which is the root cause of mold, but even moisture behind walls cannot always be detected. Make sure your home inspector is experienced in looking for hidden moisture.
If in doubt, and you think the Columbia SC home you're considering may have had moisture issues in the past, have it inspected by a trained mold professional who knows what to look for, and where. When it comes to mold and your family's health, you can never be too cautious.
One of the many reasons for getting a Columbia SC home inspection on any property you’re considering is to help discover mold.
If you have a thorough home inspector who will carefully inspect attics, basements, and crawl spaces, he or she should notice any signs of real or potential mold. However, a Columbia SC home inspection will not include anything other than pointing out the potential for mold, or that mold is evident.
What To Do If Your Columbia SC Home Inspection Reveals Mold
If your Columbia SC home inspection indicates the presence of mold, you should discuss the mold problem with your inspector. Your inspector should be able to help you decide whether to invest further in a professional mold inspection or not. Professional mold inspections can, and do, vary in cost. These additional inspections could range from under $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on the size of the home, and whether the home has a basement or crawl space.
Mold can trigger a lot of things related to your health, so it is advisable to get a second professional inspection if your Columbia SC home inspection reveals mold, or the possibility of mold.
If you’re considering purchasing a property that has potential mold, or if mold has definitely been discovered, you may want to move on to the next house on your list. But if you’ve already purchased a home before you discover mold, there are some things you need to do immediately.
Your Columbia SC home inspection report or your professional mold inspection report will tell you where the mold is located. A professional mold expert can tell you what steps to take to control and destroy the problem. The key issue is to stop the moisture problem causing the source of the mold.
Mold is one of the biggest health issues affecting individuals in their home. So if your Columbia SC home inspection even hints that mold may be present, it might be wise to keep moving and not take on that burden, unless a professional can assure you that the problem is not severe and can be contained and eliminated.
For more information on Columbia SC home inspection articles, visit our Columbia SC Home Inspection Category under our Columbia SC Real Estate Categories to the right. For more information on mold, visit the EPA website.
In many areas of the country, Spring has sprung, and with the warmer weather outside comes a desire (and a need) to do some things around your home that may have taken a beating while keeping you warm through the winter.
Protect Against Germs
Germ Warfare: Replace your air filter! Taking in all your exhaled germs, pet-hair, and anything else floating around your home in microscopic particles, your furnace has been diligently keeping you and your family from turning into icesicles all winter long. Treat it (and yourself) to a new filter. Check out the size you need and take a stroll to your local hardware store. Your furnace will thank you, your immune system will like you as well.
Bug and Pest Removal
Battle the Bugs: It’s time to put away the heavy quilts, blankets and bear-skin rugs for the spring. Be sure to wash and thoroughly dry all bedding before storing. Dirty bedding is a great way to attract moths and insects. Utilize zippered or vacuum-seal storage bags, it’ll save space and also protect you from the aforementioned bug friends.
Protect Against Mold in Your House
Marauding Mold: Sticking with keeping you and your home healthy and happy, this is the perfect time to snoop around the house for mold and mildew. With the warm weather bringing rain and humidity, attics and basements could become tenants for this nastiness, causing health problems and structural damage to your home. Find and seal any moisture leaks immediately and use your air-conditioning system and a dehumidifier in your basement to keep the humidity levels steady.
Get a head start with these 3 simple tips to remove bugs and pests, and protect your home against germs and mold. Prepare your home for warmer temperatures and your eventual spring cleaning date with the power washer. This will especially help you get jumpstarted for the upcoming home buying season!
Please feel free to leave us any comments or questions!