Recent articles and news programs have provided
constructive notice to the real estate industry, homebuyers and sellers
about the hazards associated with mold in a building. Names like Stachybotrys
chartarum and meruliporia incrassata not only sound bad, they are bad.
We all need to get more information. Unfortunately, this is a new science
and information is scarce.
What we do know:
- Mold is most often found hidden in wall cavities
and it requires moisture in order to proliferate.
- Not all molds are hazardous and environmental
experts are required to determine the difference.
- Researchers are still determining what kinds and
how much mold is dangerous.
- The source of moisture is likely a plumbing leak,
roof defect, window installation defect, exterior wall defect or
exterior grading problem (when a home inspection report outlines
defects like these, take them seriously).
- Costs are very high to remedy a serious infestation,
would you believe average pricing of $35,000 to $45,000?
In preparing a home for sale please take a few important
steps to protect everyone. As you walk-thru the interior of the home,
to make decisions about whether to add new paint or wallpaper, take
a close look around. Signs of moisture or mold may be apparent at interior
wall or ceiling surfaces. Also look under sinks, around bathtubs, around
windows and doors for signs of moisture or mold. Once painted the evidence
is gone. Hiding known defects is a very serious matter that will be
regretted later. Home inspectors and wood infestation experts provide
a limited visual analysis of homes that are often recently painted
and dressed up to sell. A home inspection specifically excludes environmental
hazards like mold from the scope of the inspection and they certainly
will not be cutting open wall cavities. How can you protect yourself?
Disclose, disclose, disclose.
Include any information about the presence of moisture
stains or mold on the Sellers Property Disclosure Statement. Molds
have been known to cause serious health problems. Be advised. |
