My Home Inspector Found Mold – Now What?

real estate mold inspections in Lake Charles, LA

What to Do If Mold is Found During a Home Inspection in Lake Charles, LA?


Discovering mold during a real estate, home inspection can be alarming. Mold is present almost everywhere, but that doesn't mean a home with mold problems should be disregarded. If you're in the market for a home, it's essential to learn how to identify signs that a mold inspection is required, as it is a prevalent household concern. Additionally, speak with the home seller to disclose any mold issues within the house, and ensure that both parties are in agreement.


Dealing with Mold Issues Found During a Home Inspection in Lake Charles, LA


During a routine home inspection, it's essential to address any issues discovered before or after the transaction is complete. A comprehensive home inspector will identify any problems with the property you're interested in purchasing, including mold. However, finding mold does not always mean that the deal is off. Most mold problems are solvable, and a professional mold remediation company in Lake Charles, LA can help. They have the expertise and equipment to remove the mold and restore a safe environment in your home.

home inspection reveal mold lake charles, la

Signs of a Mold Problem in Lake Charles, LA Homes


Identifying Mold Issues in Prospective Homes: Mold can take many forms, making it crucial to know what to look for when checking out potential homes. Here are some signs to keep in mind:

Visible Signs:

  • Colors: Mold can appear in a range of colors, including black, white, gray, green, and brown.
  • Staining: Dark stains on wood or porous building materials are a strong indication of mold. Moisture seeping into these materials is the cause of staining, and this moisture is what mold thrives on.
  • Mold Growth: Mold can often be seen as a chalky, powdery substance that can grow on almost any material. It can be hard to spot at times, and may only be visible from certain angles or in specific lighting.

Non-visible Signs:

  • Odor: Mold may not always be visible, but its distinct musty, earthy, unpleasant odor can often be detected.
  • Physical Symptoms: Mold can cause allergic reactions in some people, including sneezing, sore throat, itchy eyes, headache, and irritated skin. Not everyone experiences the same sensitivities, but if you notice these symptoms when entering a home, it could be indicative of a mold issue.

Conditions Conducive to Mold Growth:

  • Mold thrives in warm, damp environments. However, it can grow under other conditions as well. Anywhere with excess moisture, such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens, are prime locations to search for signs of mold issues.
identifying mold issues in prospective homes in Lake Charles, LA

Scheduling a Mold Inspection When Your Home Inspector Finds Mold


If your home inspector finds mold or the possibility of mold, it's important to schedule a mold inspection as soon as possible. The mold inspector can provide you with a definitive answer as to whether or not mold is present, as well as the severity of the damage and the necessary next steps.


The first thing that the mold inspector will do upon arrival is perform a visual inspection of your home to identify factors that are conducive to mold growth. They will then use digital documentation to capture photographic evidence of the affected areas. From there, the inspector will conduct thermal imaging and moisture mapping to pinpoint any damp or wet areas that may not be visible to the naked eye. Once all of these steps are completed, the mold inspector will determine if professional mold testing is necessary.


Expert Air Quality and Mold Testing Services in Southern Lake Charles, LA


Dealing with Mold: When to Hire a Professional Inspector: If a mold issue is discovered by your home inspector, it may be necessary to call in a professional to conduct a thorough examination. Mold testing can provide valuable information regarding elevated mold presence, mold species and levels.

During the testing process, the mold inspector will first take an outdoor spore count to establish a control variable. This sets the natural level of mold found outside and is used for comparison to the tests taken inside the home. The inspector will use a combination of airborne and surface mold tests to get a complete understanding of the issue at hand. After the initial inspection, the samples collected are sent out to a third-party lab for analysis.


If the spore count from indoors is higher than that of the outdoors, this could mean there is a potential mold problem. The mold inspector will be able to explain to you not only if there is mold present, but also the specific species of mold that you are dealing with.


Finding Your Dream Home Despite Mold Concerns


If you're on the hunt for your dream home in Lake Charles, Louisiana, don't let mold stop you in your tracks. Fortunately, there's usually a way to address any mold issues that may arise during your search. If your home inspector detects mold, a professional mold inspector like DryMax Mold can help you get to the root of the problem and provide you with an appropriate solution.

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Preventing Mold in Louisiana: A Homeowners Guide to Healthy Living

By Thomas Duff • February 20, 2024
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Navigating Mold Damage Insurance Claims in Louisiana

By Thomas Duff • February 5, 2024
Mold Damage and Insurance Coverage in Louisiana When it comes to homeowners insurance in Louisiana, coverage for mold damage hinges on the source of the mold and the specific provisions in the insurance policy. For instance, mold removal is typically covered when the source of the mold is a peril already covered in homeowners insurance policies in Louisiana, such as water damage from burst pipes or malfunctioning appliances. However, it's important to note that mold damage from natural disasters or homeowner negligence is usually not covered by homeowners insurance in Louisiana. An example of this is when a homeowner experiences water damage from a burst pipe, and this leads to mold growth in their home. In this scenario, the mold removal would likely be covered because the source of the mold (water damage) is a peril already covered in a standard homeowners insurance policy in Louisiana. On the other hand, if the mold is a result of long-term neglect of a leaking pipe, it may not be covered under the policy. Some homeowners insurance companies have gone as far as dropping coverage for mold altogether in Louisiana, making it crucial for homeowners to carefully review their insurance policies and seek professional advice to ensure they fully understand their coverage. This underscores the significance of homeowners being proactive in understanding the extent of their coverage and taking steps to prevent mold growth in their properties. Understanding the nuances of mold damage coverage under homeowners insurance in Louisiana is essential for homeowners in safeguarding their properties. It's imperative to review insurance policies diligently and seek professional help if facing a mold damage claim , especially in cases where claims have been denied or underpaid based on mold exclusions.

The Mold Menace: How Mold Infestation Can Diminish Property Values in Louisiana

By Thomas Duff • January 31, 2024
The Mold Menace: How Mold Infestation Can Diminish Property Values in Louisiana The article explores the impact of mold on property values in Louisiana, discussing how mold can cause structural damage, health issues, and decrease the desirability of properties, while also providing tips for prevention and remediation. Understanding Mold and Its Effects on Property Values Mold's impact on property values in the Louisiana real estate market is multifaceted and can have significant repercussions for both buyers and sellers. When mold infestation occurs, it can result in a myriad of issues that affect the value of a property. From causing structural damage to diminishing aesthetic appeal, increasing maintenance costs, and impacting market desirability, the presence of mold can lead to a decrease in property value. For example, the discovery of mold in a home can lead to potential buyers negotiating for a lower price to account for the costs of addressing the mold issue and the perceived decrease in the property's value. The potential health implications of mold infestation are a pivotal factor in understanding its impact on property values. Long-term exposure to mold can lead to persistent sinusitis, respiratory infections, and even brain disorders, affecting the desirability and value of a property. For instance, if a property has a history of mold infestation leading to health issues for previous occupants, it can significantly reduce its appeal and market value, as potential buyers may be deterred by the health risks associated with mold exposure.