According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, mold may be present in up to 47% of residential homes in the United States.
While we may not think of mold exposure too much in the cold climate of Northeast PA, the sweltering heat of the summer combined with the poor ventilation that many older homes, unfortunately, provide can make any home the perfect breeding ground for mold.
We recommend all home buyers and sellers conduct a separate mold inspection to protect their investment and bypass expensive mold remediation. Many clients are surprised to learn that mold is not typically caught on regular home inspections simply because it is so good at hiding behind surfaces we would never suspect.
With that said, here are seven essential reasons all parties should conduct a mold inspection when transacting a home.
What Is a Mold Inspection?
Not all mold is created equal. In some instances, we may find harmless species of mold that can be wiped away with a bleach solution, while others may necessitate professional mold remediation.
A mold inspection is a thorough examination of a property designed to detect three important things:
- The presence and extent of mold exposure in the home.
- The species of mold and its threat level to human health.
- Potential sources of moisture or water damage that is accelerating the proliferation of mold growth.
During an inspection, our team of trained technicians will look at common areas where mold tends to be present, such as:
- Attics
- Basements
- Bathrooms
- HVAC Systems
What most of these areas have in common is close proximity to moisture and, typically, poor ventilation.
Once we uncover mold in your home, it will be sent out for testing to determine its severity.
Mold Inspection vs. Testing
As a small note of clarification, mold testing and inspections are different. In most cases, mold testing is recommended to determine whether or not the presence of mold in your home is dangerous.
Nevertheless, we will recommend removing any mold found immediately. However, the difference will be whether or not professional remediation is required.
7 Reasons Every Home Buyer Should Get a Mold Inspection
Certainly, home inspections are an important part of the closing process, but why should you get a mold inspection? Doesn’t my regular home inspector check for mold anyway?
1. Mold Inspections Are Not Included in Regular Home Inspections
Unfortunately, mold inspections are not included in a traditional home inspection.
A home inspection aims to determine whether the house is liveable from a structural perspective. This includes looking at the roof, floors, walls, appliances, etc., to see any obvious signs of damage that may impact the home’s value or livability.
However, mold tends to hide beneath the surface and requires separate investigation. Home inspectors simply don’t have the time to peel back every floorboard or peer behind your drywall to look for mold if there are no obvious signs already on these surfaces.
That’s why a separate mold inspection is recommended, especially if an inspector does detect water damage during the initial inspection report.
2. Protects Your Health
Mold exposure can cause a range of health problems, including:
- Allergy like symptoms
- Asthma attacks
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Rashes
For individuals with pre-existing conditions or weakened immune systems, mold exposure can worsen these symptoms over time.
A mold inspection and testing can identify toxic species of mold, such as Stachybotrys (also known as black mold, to determine if remediation is required.
3. Uncovers Potential Water Damage
Mold is a massive red flag pointing to potential water damage in your home. Remember, mold requires moisture to proliferate, so the presence of mold will indicate a possible leak or poor ventilation that does not allow excess humidity to exit the home.
4. Mold Can Weaken Structural Integrity
Water damage can warp wooden structures and lead to cracks in concrete that weaken the structural integrity of your home. But did you know that mold can also damage surfaces and degrade their integrity?
Mold feeds on organic materials like cellulose, meaning that significant mold exposure behind drywall or floorboards can actually weaken these structures over time.
5. Mold Cleanup Can Be Expensive
According to Architectural Digest, homeowners can expect to pay around $2,230 for mold remediation. When factoring in other closing costs, furnishing your home, and possibly paying for other repairs, this is an expense that most home buyers simply can’t afford.
6. Buyers Can Negotiate a Better Deal
Instead of being on the hook for expensive mold remediation, buyers can pre-empt this expense by negotiating for the sellers to pay for the remediation before the sale of the home or by lumping it into the closing costs. Performing a mold inspection, along with other important inspections, such as radon or water quality, can help buyers avoid expensive repairs and protect their investment.
7. Provides Helpful Advice for Future Mold Prevention
Our team of trained inspectors provides our clients with comprehensive advice on remediation and prevention so that they can avoid mold growth in their new homes.
Performing a separate mold inspection may not be something you budgeted for, but it can help you save money, protect your investment, and preserve your health. For mold inspections in Northeast Pennsylvania, call the experts at Mountain to Valley Home Inspections for a free quote.
FAQs
What does a mold inspection involve?
A mold inspection involves a visual assessment of the property, moisture readings, and sometimes air or surface sampling to detect the presence of mold spores. Inspectors will check common areas where mold grows, such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and HVAC systems.
How much does a mold inspection cost?
The cost of a mold inspection typically ranges from $300 to $1,000, depending on the size of the home and the extent of the inspection. While this may seem like an added expense, it is minimal compared to the potential costs of mold remediation.
Can I perform a mold inspection myself?
While you can check for visible signs of mold and moisture, a professional mold inspection is recommended. Professionals have the tools and expertise to detect hidden mold and assess potential risks that you may not notice.