Mold...A Real Killer!!!

My last listing that had a mold issue was easily remedied by fixing the cause to the mold.  In this instance it happened to be a window that didn't have caulk in a pane.  When we had a hurricane it drove water thru the glass and soaked the drywall.  The drywall was removed and replaced, repainted.  A professional mold person brought in "air scrubbers" which are plugged in for a few days.  The home smelled so clean.  It was almost like the smell a hotel has with an indoor pool.  There are no chemicals used, the air scrubbers actually change the molecules of the atmosphere, killing the mold, allergens, etc.  It cost about $300-$400 (for a 1500 SF home) for the treatment in the Bonita Springs, Florida area. 

I'm having them treat my home the next time I go on vacation, just because it smelled so clean and removes allergens, pollens, etc.  It's a great idea to have the pro's treat a "funky" smelling listing that has either been filled with smoke or pets or some that has been ill.  It seriously irradicates all odors.

Lucky, mold is an issue everywhere.  Even in a dry climate like Utah.  I had a listing where a basement bathroom in a duplex did not have any venting and no windows.  The shower, windows, and even floor tile had mold.  As I asked the tenants about the property they said it was a nice place, but also talked about their respiratory illnesses.  They didn't connect the dots.

I discussed the concern with the seller who did not see any problem and was upset that I required we disclose the problem.  I terminated the listing and he went with another agent that would cave in to his demands.  A year later I heard of a lawsuit between the buyer and the seller. 

Whew...dodged another bullit!

Lucky, here ya go!

http://www.epa.gov/mold/

http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/ts/IAQ/default.HTM

Scroll down on the 2nd link to the Mold section. Lots of great stuff there.

Have a great day in real estate!

It's a gas mask, from  Isreal. 

(Russia)

Mold testing/inspection is a standard question down here in KS.  We even have a mold sniffing dog team that is on our inspection list.

If I suspect mold in a house, I save the inspection fee and just bring my wife along.  She is highly allergic to the stuff and ....  just kidding, sorry honey.

If you are buying a home, it only makes sense to have a mold test.  The last thing you want is your family to be made potentially ill from living in a home with a high level of mold.