Suspecting Mold in Your Home? Here Are the Steps We Recommend

11/23/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment drying moisture exposed areas.

At SERVPRO, we understand that discovering mold in your home can be a concerning and overwhelming experience. Mold can pose health risks and cause damage to your property if left untreated. If you suspect mold is lurking in your home, it's essential to take the right steps promptly to address the issue. In this blog post, we want to share our expertise and provide you with a step-by-step guide on what actions to take when you suspect mold in your home.

1. Stay Safe:

Your safety is the top priority when dealing with mold. Mold spores can become airborne and potentially harmful when disturbed. To protect yourself and your family:

• Limit access to the affected area, especially if mold is visible.
• Avoid touching or disturbing mold growth.
• Wear protective gear, including gloves, a mask, and eye protection, when inspecting or cleaning up mold.

2. Identify the Source:

Determining the source of moisture that led to mold growth is crucial for effective remediation. Mold requires moisture to thrive. Common sources of moisture include:

• Leaky roofs or plumbing.
• Poor ventilation.
• High humidity levels.
• Flooding or water intrusion.

Identify and address the source of moisture to prevent mold from returning after remediation.

3. Document and Take Photos:

Documenting the mold issue with photographs can be helpful for insurance claims and communication with professionals. Take clear photos of the affected areas, including any visible mold growth and water damage.

4. Do Not Attempt DIY Remediation:

While it may be tempting to tackle mold removal yourself, it's not recommended. Mold can spread quickly when disturbed, and improper removal methods can exacerbate the problem and pose health risks. Leave mold remediation to professionals who are trained and equipped to handle it safely and effectively.

5. Contact a Mold Remediation Expert:

Reach out to a certified mold remediation specialist, such as SERVPRO, to assess the extent of the mold issue and develop a remediation plan. A professional will have the knowledge and equipment to properly address the problem, ensuring thorough removal and preventing future growth.

6. Isolate the Affected Area:

If you are awaiting professional remediation, isolate the affected area as much as possible to prevent mold spores from spreading to other parts of your home. Close doors and seal off vents or openings.

7. Turn Off HVAC Systems:

Mold spores can circulate through your home's HVAC system. To prevent further contamination, turn off your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system if mold is suspected or confirmed.

8. Ventilate the Area:

If it's safe to do so, increase ventilation in the affected area by opening windows and doors. This can help reduce indoor humidity and promote drying.

9. Wait for Professional Assessment:

While you may be eager to address the mold issue swiftly, it's essential to wait for the professional assessment and remediation plan. Professionals will evaluate the scope of the problem and develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation.

10. Follow Remediation Recommendations:

Once a remediation plan is in place, follow the recommendations provided by the mold remediation experts. This may include temporarily vacating your home during remediation, especially if extensive mold removal is required.

11. Take Preventive Measures:

After mold remediation, consider taking preventive measures to avoid future mold growth:

• Address any underlying moisture issues, such as leaks or poor ventilation.
• Maintain indoor humidity levels within a healthy range.
• Regularly inspect your home for signs of water intrusion or leaks.

Remember that mold issues are best handled by professionals who have the expertise, equipment, and training to address them effectively. SERVPRO is here to help you navigate the process and ensure your home is mold-free and safe for you and your family. If you suspect mold in your home, don't hesitate to reach out to us for professional mold assessment and remediation services. Your well-being and peace of mind are our top priorities.