Buying a Home in Mobile, AL? What You Need to Know About Mold

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

Don't let mold stop you from purchasing your new home, contact SERVPRO of Mobile County to assist you with your mold remediation.

Buying a Home in Mobile, AL? What You Need to Know About Mold

Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but what happens if your dream home comes with an unwelcome guest—mold? Mold is a common problem in households across the United States, thriving in dark, damp spaces and potentially causing significant issues. If you’re considering buying a house in Mobile, AL, it’s crucial to understand the implications of mold and how it can impact your decision.

Understanding the Problems with Mold

Mold can quickly spread in warm, moist conditions, with spores becoming airborne within 24 to 48 hours. Although mold is common, it can escalate from a minor nuisance to a severe  financial concern. Common types of mold include black, white, and green, with black mold being particularly hazardous due to its toxic properties.

The Dangers of Mold Growth

• Structural Damage: Mold can compromise the structural integrity of a home by feeding on organic materials like wood and drywall, leading to significant damage and reduced property value.
• Aesthetic Issues: Mold can mar the appearance of a home with unsightly stains that are difficult to remove and may reappear even after extensive cleaning.

Key Considerations When Buying a House with Mold

1. Diverse Mold Types: There are over 100,000 mold varieties, with some being toxic. Identifying the type of mold and its potential dangers can be challenging, and standard home inspections may not detect all issues. A professional mold inspection is essential for accurate assessment.

2. HVAC System Contamination: If mold infiltrates your HVAC system, it can spread spores throughout your home, affecting air quality. Ensure that air ducts are thoroughly inspected.

3. Remediation Costs: Mold remediation can be expensive, involving professional services and possible structural repairs. Factor in these costs when considering a property.

Making an Informed Decision

If you’re interested in a property with mold, follow these steps to make an informed decision:

• Get a Mold Inspection: Hire a professional mold inspector to assess the extent of the problem and provide guidance on risks and remediation costs.
• Consider the Location: Research the area’s humidity levels and mold prevalence. Certain regions are more prone to mold issues.
• Negotiate Remediation Costs: If you’re still interested in the property, negotiate with the seller to cover mold remediation expenses.
• Review Financial Implications: Compare the costs of mold remediation with the home’s value and potential impact on mortgage terms.
• Consult Your Real Estate Agent: A knowledgeable real estate agent can offer insights and help you navigate the complexities of buying a home with mold.
• Plan for Future Prevention: If you decide to proceed with the purchase, implement measures to prevent future mold issues. This includes regular inspections, proper ventilation, and addressing moisture sources promptly.

Expert Mold Remediation from SERVPRO of Mobile County

When dealing with mold, it’s crucial to have a trusted remediation partner. SERVPRO of Mobile County offers comprehensive mold remediation services designed to address and resolve mold issues effectively. Here’s why we’re the go-to choice for new home buyers and local real estate agents:

• IICRC Certified and Trained Employees: Our team is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We have the training and expertise to handle all aspects of mold remediation according to industry standards.

• Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment and technology to detect, remove, and prevent mold. Our advanced tools ensure thorough and effective remediation, minimizing further damage and ensuring a safe environment.

• Local Expertise: As a locally owned and operated company with over 20 years of experience, we understand the unique challenges of mold in Mobile, AL. We’re the trusted choice for both home buyers and real estate professionals in the area.

• Comprehensive Services: Our services include mold inspection, containment, removal, and cleanup. We also offer preventative measures to ensure mold does not return, helping you maintain a healthy home environment.

If you’re facing mold issues or want to ensure your new home is mold-free, SERVPRO of Mobile County is Here to Help®. Contact us for a thorough assessment and expert remediation services.

For more information, visit our website or call us directly.

Conclusion

Buying a home with mold requires careful consideration. While it may seem manageable initially, the potential risk of spreading through out the home can lead to further financial expenses. By thoroughly evaluating the situation, seeking expert advice, and partnering with trusted professionals like SERVPRO of Mobile County, you can make an informed decision and navigate the challenges of purchasing a property with mold in Mobile, AL.

Mold Problems? Leave Mold Remediation to the Experts at SERVPRO of Mobile County

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

There are many reasons homes in the Mobile area have challenges with mold and need to have it remediated. As we know, Mobile is one of the wettest cities in the United States which can definitely add to the mold issue, but water leaks can also cause mold growth.  If your home is experiencing a mold issue, it is in your best interest to leave the mold cleanup to experts who have been properly trained by IICRC standards. SERVPRO of Mobile County knows how to address it correctly. Our teams are not only educated and trained in situations like this, we have the correct resources and tools to remediate your mold issues.

What is Mold Remediation?

If you see or smell mold, most people believe this is the only way that mold can be present in their home or office. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Microscopic mold spores are everywhere; this is perfectly natural and is part of any home’s environment. When homeowners begin to actually see mold in their homes, that’s when mold has become an issue and mold remediation needs to happen by properly trained individuals.  When professionals such as our mold technicians of SERVPRO of Mobile County come to inspect the mold issue in your home, they are not just performing mold removal, but mold remediation.  Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is virtually impossible. Unfortunately, many companies claim they can get rid of mold for good, but this simply is not true and can be very misleading to the client. When the trained experts at SERVPRO of Mobile County come to a home to address and assess a mold issue, they are focusing on the mold remediation process, which is reducing the mold levels to normal, natural environmental levels.

Why Homeowners Should Not Try Removing Mold Themselves

Since many mold issues start because of a water leak or other presence of excessive moisture, many people assume that once they address the water issue, they can simply cleaning up mold on their own. One common misconception is using a little bit of bleach and some elbow grease to get the job done. However, there are very specific steps that should be taken for mold remediation.

·        A mold professional needs to come out and inspect the mold damage using various technologies to detect mold and hidden moisture sources.  

·        The area needs to be contained to prevent the spread of mold. 

·        A special air filtration system utilizing HEPA filtration is used to capture microscopic mold spores in the air.

·        Treatment using properly formulated antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming.

·        Removing and disposing of mold-infested building materials (drywall, carpet, etc.) may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

·        Cleaning of other items, depending on the severity of the mold growth, may be necessary using techniques to clean and treat the items.

Mold Remediation Protocol

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

One common question we get from customers who suspect a mold issue is what exactly the remediation process will entail.  The answer is, quite simply, we don’t know.  The process for properly remediating mold can be different in each situation based on a variety of factors.  When you call SERVPRO of Mobile County, we will schedule an inspection with one of our certified project managers.  Once on-site, they will evaluate your situation based on all of the unique variables that can affect the remediation plan. Factors that may affect the treatment process include space affected, location within the structure and materials affected. We are IICRC certified and follow all OSHA guidelines to restore the health and safety of your living area or workspace.  If you suspect a mold problem in your home or business, contact our offices today at 251-343-0534 to schedule an inspection. 

Mold Mistakes

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

So, you found mold in your home or office and you need a professional to handle it, but how do you choose?  It is important to always hire a professional remediation company to ensure that the mold issue is properly addressed.  The biggest mistake you can make is not hiring qualified professionals – at SERVPRO of Mobile County, our technicians have undergone extensive training and received their IICRC certification.  Here are some things to look out for during the process to make sure it is being handled in the right manner:

• Proper containment – mold is spread very easily and the space where the work is being performed should have barriers up to prevent spreading
• Leaving mold behind – even if all visible mold is removed, there could be mold in hidden spaces that has not been treated
• Treatment – not treating the affected space to prevent future growth

If you suspect you may have a mold issue, give us a call to schedule an inspection today!

Odor Removal

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

If you have mold growth in your home or office, it may not always be visible. Often, the first telltale sign that you have a mold issue is a musty, damp smell.  Mold likes to lurk in hidden spaces or nooks and crannies where it can’t be seen.  It is common for leaks to occur behind walls or in concealed spaces.  You may not know you have a problem until something smells “off” in your home.   When you have a mold issue the first thing you want to do is call in a qualified mold specialist like SERVPRO of Mobile County to handle the issue.  Our certified crews have been specifically trained and received IICRC certification in the proper methods to remediate mold growth and prevent future occurrences.  Once the mold issue has been resolved, you may still be left with an unpleasant odor.  SERVPRO of Mobile County also has the training and equipment to rid your home of the last reeking remnants of your mold damage!  We can also take care of odors caused by pets, smoke or other contaminants.  Contact us today for more information on our odor removal services.

What Mold Needs

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is that four letter word that nobody wants to hear when it comes to their home or business, yet it is more common that you might think.  Mold is a natural occurrence in our environment and exists almost everywhere.  It is relatively harmless unless the natural balance is unsettled allowing for uncontrolled growth.  So how can you prevent it?  The first step in prevention is understanding the “perfect environment” that would allow mold to flourish.  To grow, mold only needs three main ingredients: food, moisture and optimum temperatures.  Mold “feeds” on any organic substance, especially porous surfaces such as textiles.  When combined with moisture and temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees, the conditions are perfect for an explosion of mold colonies.  Knowledge is your best defense; however, you can’t always prevent mold growth.  If you find that you have an issue with mold, contact SERVPRO of Mobile County at 251-343-0534 to schedule an inspection.

Choosing a Mold Remediation Specialist

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

If you experience a mold issue in your home or business, proper remediation is vital to preventing future problems.  You may be asking yourself where to begin when it comes to choosing a qualified mold remediation company.  As an IICRC certified mold remediation specialist, SERVPRO of Mobile County wants to help you know what to look for when choosing a restoration company.  First, make sure that the company you choose can explain the remediation plan from start to finish.  Once you have hired them to complete the project, you want to make sure that they are always wearing OSHA approved PPE (personal protective equipment).  They should also take proper safety precautions when it comes to protecting areas of your home not affected by mold contamination.  This means that they should be using approved materials such as plastic sheeting to prevent mold spores from migrating.  Other equipment such as HEPA air scrubbers and vacuums, and commercial strength dehumidifiers may also be necessary.  The best way to ensure that your home is restored to a safe and healthy environment is to hire a qualified a certified mold remediation expert. SERVPRO of Mobile County has years of experience and extensive training to ensure that they can help you with all your mold remediation needs.  If you have mold concerns, contact us at 251-343-0534 to schedule a consultation.

Covered in Mold?

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

When your home is covered in mold, it is too late to ask if you are covered FOR mold.  For most people who take out a homeowners policy, they don’t think of all the various scenarios that could cause damage in their home.  There are often gaps in their coverage that go unnoticed until the unexpected occurs. Unfortunately, mold growth is commonly falls into this category. At SERVPRO of Mobile County, we want to help you be prepared before it’s too late.  Mold coverage can vary from company to company and even policy to policy. So how do you know if you are covered? It’s very important to read your entire policy or go through it with your insurance agent. You should look closely at the specific language used especially in reference to the cause of the mold issue.  Most policies have a long list of exclusions for the causes of mold. For example mold growth resulting from rot, corrosion, wear and tear, deterioration and neglect are some of the most common reasons that mold remediation may not be covered. The key to ensuring that you are protected is education and communication.  There are many resources, such as United Policyholders, designed to help you learn more and empower you with the knowledge to know what questions to ask. Once you know what you want to ask, speak with your agent and communicate your concerns and/or questions. And as always, if you experience a mold issue in your home, contact SERVPRO of Mobile County at 251-343-0534 to schedule your inspection.

Did You Know

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Of course everyone knows what mold is and most of us know the hazards that indoor mold growth can pose.  Here at SERVPRO of Mobile County, we undergo extensive training in order to receive IICRC Certification in the remediation of mold. We like to think the knowledge this affords us, as well as our extensive experience in the field makes us an unstumpable foe. However; even the experts can learn something new each day.  We like to stress the importance of continued growth and learning to our team members. In that spirit, we went on the hunt for some of the most interesting facts regarding mold that we could find.  Did you know…

• Mold isn’t so happy about happy meals....mold will not grow on a McDonald’s hamburger.
• Mold damage can cause more than half a trillion dollars per year.
• Mold produces VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)....this is what creates the "nasty" odors associated with mold

Commercial Mold Loss in Prichard, AL

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Prichard, AL

It’s that four letter word that no home or business owner wants to hear….NO, not THAT four letter word!  We are talking about Mold. And although it may not have been on the list of four letter words that your Mom told you not to say, it's just as nasty.  Mold is a sneaky threat that can creep up on your home or business and ravage it before you even know its there. Here is a photo from a recent commercial loss that was handled by SERVPRO of Mobile County.  As you can see there was some water damage that occurred from a roof leaf. The moisture and warm temperatures in the ceiling cavity created the perfect environment for mold growth. Left untreated this could have affected the entire building and become a much bigger problem.  Thankfully these business owners called the experts at SERVPRO of Mobile County. We were able to effectively and safely treat the affected area and prevent future problems for our client.

Protecting Your Home from Mold

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

For most homeowners, mold isn’t something they think about until it is too late.  They don’t realize that it’s often what you DON’T SEE that leads to a costly and worrisome battle with mold.  Here at SERVPRO of Mobile County, we take pride in restoring homes after a loss, but we also want to help you prevent disasters before they occur.  Mold is actually much more preventable than many other remediation disasters.  Here are some tips to help you prevent mold growth in your home:

• Keep the humidity level in your home low, preferably no more than 30-50%.

• Use and maintain bathroom ventilation systems.

• Use both air conditioners and de-humidifiers.

• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms

• Use exhaust fans when using appliances (stoves, dishwashers, etc.)

• Routinely check indoor sources of moisture (leaky pipes, appliance hoses, faucets, toilets).

• If you notice water or condensation, quickly pinpoint the source and repair

• Check all entrances for leaks, stains, and odors.

• Clean bathrooms with mold killing products like bleach and keep them dry.

• Watch your water bill; if it is unusually high you may have a leak

• Turn off your main water valve when you travel.

If you do suspect a mold problem in your home or business contact SERVPRO of Mobile County at 251-343-0534 to schedule an inspection!

Why Mold is a DIY Don't

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

For the weekend warrior, the slayer of Pinterest projects and the ruler of home renovation projects, the idea of hiring someone to do work for them is almost inconceivable.  For them, their home is their most treasured possession and letting anyone else put their hands on their sacred space would be an unforgivable act.  However; even for the most dedicated do it yourselfers, there are some home projects that are better left to the experts.  One of those projects is mold.  We have been asked more than a few times if it is safe to clean up household mold on your own.  The answer is no. Not well, not if, not but, not maybe, but just NO.  When you call in a certified company like SERVPRO of Mobile County, you are protecting not just your investment but your family, pets, friends and anyone else who enters your home.  Why is it so important to call a qualified professional?  Mold is a remediation process that involves many variables and a fluid plan of action to account for any unforeseen obstacles.  Our team members have undergone extensive training to receive IICRC certification in mold remediation.  We have specialized equipment and treatment solutions to eliminate mold and prevent regrowth or spreading in the future.  Our team members also wear OSHA certified PPE gear to protect themselves and their health.  We have the tools, resources and knowledge to get the job done.  Don’t risk the health and safety of your family. If you have a mold issue call SERVPRO of Mobile County and let us help!

Mold Myth

8/20/2017 (Permalink)

Despite the myths perpetuated by the media in recent years, it is impossible to tell what types of mold are dangerous simply by looking at the color.  The so called “killer black mold” that made headlines for its dangerous health effects was Stachybotrys.  Mold has been around for millions of years and there is almost always a small amount of mold in the air and on many surfaces. All mold has the same biological structure, consisting of millions of tiny spores that bind together to create colonies.  These spores are what give each variant of mold its unique coloring.  Colors can range from black and brown to green, orange and yellow.  When disturbed, the colonies release spores into the air, which can affect those with allergies, asthma, chronic lung illnesses or compromised immune systems.  In those healthy individuals with normal immune systems, the effects are much milder.  More severe health effects attributed to what became known as killer black mold have not been proven according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control).  All mold should be treated immediately as the long-term ramifications can be much more detrimental than short term exposure.  Mold growth should always be remediated by a trained, certified professional to properly treat the problem and avoid further spreading of the issue.  Here at SERVPRO of Mobile County, our technicians have been trained and certified in Mold Remediation and we follow IICRC and OSHA standards to ensure that your home is safe, healthy and mold free.

Mold and Textile

8/20/2017 (Permalink)

In the past, textiles affected by mold or sewage were often labeled as unsalvageable and simply tossed away.  Now, thanks to the advanced technology of the Esporta Washing System, this is no longer the case.  The Esporta offers a one of a kind clean by utilizing a four-quadrant system and specially formulated cleaning solvents.  This innovative process allows us to remove 99.9999 percent of contaminants, which is equivalent to food grade quality.  Historically washing machines used a system of agitation and standard cleaning solutions to beat items against each other and “grind” out the contaminants.  The Esporta has a unique system of chambers that hold the contents securely while water and cleaning solutions are pushed through the chamber, flushing out the contaminants.  This allows us to clean a wider variety of items, from leather goods to porcelain dolls.  The Esporta also uses a unique blend of solutions that are adjusted for each item based on the contaminant, the level of contamination, and the type of item being cleaned. Benefits include minimized claims costs, reduced claim turnaround time and increased customer satisfaction.  This revolutionary system is exclusive to the restoration industry and SERVPRO of Mobile County are proud to be the only provider along the Gulf Coast.

Why We Don't Test For Mold?

7/14/2017 (Permalink)

Most people think a company that remediates mold would also do the testing of mold? Here at SERVPRO of Mobile County, we do not, and this is why:

Given we are a Cleaning and Remediation Company, we have determined being a certified Industrial Hygienist (IH) is veering too far from our profession.  Mold remediation and mold testing require different sets of training, certifications, and professional equipment. For remediation purposes, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) offers a course called Applied Microbial Remediation Technician.  In this course, technicians learn how to properly remediate mold, not test for it.  For testing purposes, you must have a 4 year bachelor’s degree in the particular field  as well as specific IH courses. We are trained professionals in remediating your mold concerns and that is where we focus our expertise.

In addition, a company that does both testing and remediation of mold could potentially be perceived to be skewing test results and protocols to serve their own needs (i.e. - to provide their own “passing” remediation status or inflate a remediation protocol to increase the cost of the job).  To avoid this, we not only have another company do the testing, but we also have the customer call in the IH rather than bringing them in ourselves as a subcontractor of our services.  This ensures that the IH is working for the customer’s best interest. At SERVPRO of Mobile Northwest, we make sure our customers can be fully confident they are receiving the most ethical and trustworthy service. 

So what do you do if you find Mold?

If you believe that you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Mobile County to evaluate your site and assess the source and extent of the issue. We will provide you with a written assessment of our findings and recommendations of next steps. If the mold issue is severe enough, your next step may be to contact an Industrial Hygienist. The IH will test the area for mold and create a remediation protocol and report with their findings. Adhering to the protocol from the IH, we will properly remediate the site to ensure a return your home or business to preloss condition.

Mold In My Summer Rental

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Did you unlock your front door of your summer rental and smell a musty odor? 

Every year home owners from all over come back to their Dauphin Island or Mobile Bay rental unit, and find the horrible smell of mold and mildew has taken over their awesome condos and vacation homes.

One quick tip to help avoid arriving to the unwelcome smell of musky mold and mildew is to use the Air Conditioners and Dehumidifiers. If you have the luxury of being able to check in on your unit during the off season, then the air conditioning and dehumidifiers can really help you keep your unit dry.

If you do not have the ability to monitor your vacation home everyday in the off season, call SERVPRO of Mobile County a few days to a week before you plan on opening the unit back up. We can fix your mold issues and have you enjoying your property in no time! 251-343-0534

The Dangers of Mold and why SERVPRO of Mobile County is the Fastest and Best

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

You have just found mold in your home or business! The first question everyone asks is, who do you call? There are many mold remediation companies in our area, but the one true difference between them all is, SERVPRO of Mobile County has the FASTEST response time and the highest standards. Your health and safety are our primary concern. 

Did you know in as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Mobile County has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Down to every square inch, SERVPRO of Mobile County will make sure your home or business is eradicated of all the mold and find the source of the problem. 

Have a Mold Problem? Call us at 251-343-0534.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Mobile County at 251-343-0534 for professional mold remediation services.

What NOT to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.