Got Mold? Here Are Mold Do’s & Don’ts for Business Professionals

Dealing with mold as a business professional versus a homeowner is a little different.  Realtors, lenders, property managers, custodial staff, school administrators and employers often have to deal mold concerns.   Over the last several months, SRP has been contacted by several business professionals to assess mold and water damage within a property.   Some have no clue what to do.  When in doubt, trust a professional.

Finding mold within a property creates fear and worry for buyers/sellers, tenants/landlords and business owners/employees. The presence of excessive mold is indicative of a water intrusion event, which could create liability, expose inhabitants to harmful microbes and potentially affect the property integrity and value.

Read More About Water Damage Clean-Up for Businesses

Addressing mold issues and concerns creates and open and honest relationship between the buyer and seller, the tenant and landlord, the employee and employer, which helps to ensure a worry-free experience.

Here are a few tips on what to do and not to do if mold is found within a property.

DO:

  • Disclose the Presence of Mold, Bacteria and Water Damage to the Occupants.
  • Contact a Licensed or Professional Mold Inspector to Conduct a Mold Assessment.  There are certain guidelines schools and commercial buildings must follow.
  • Hire a Licensed Mold Remediation Contractor to Properly Remove the Mold and Clean the Area.
  • Address the Source of the Moisture and Mold Immediately.  Common Sources Include Plumbing Fixtures, HVAC Systems, Roof or Window Leaks or Lack of Ventilation in the Kitchen/Bathroom.

DON’T:

  • Touch Mold or Moldy Items With Bare Hands.
  • Breathe in Mold or Mold Spores.
  • Attempt to Remove the Mold or Clean the Area Yourself.
  • Allow Maintenance Crews to Remove the Mold or Clean the Area. This Exposes Your Employees to Harmful Fungi and Bacteria.
  • Paint Over the Mold.  The Mold Will Continue Grow.
  • Provide Exposure or Medical Opinions to Occupants.

Read More About How to Deal With Water Damage
Read More About What To Do After a Flood

MORE ABOUT MOLD

Floodwater or stagnant water could contain thousands of colonies of harmful bacteria. Mold can begin to grow within 24 hours of water damage and on virtually any surface, as long as moisture or water, oxygen, and an organic source are present.

Mold spores continually float through the indoor and outdoor air.  Visible or hidden molds are possible in areas like your HVAC system. Furthermore, visible mold growth on the drywall is a likely indicator of more mold and bacteria inside the wall cavity.

Mold will gradually damage building materials and furnishings. If left unchecked, mold can eventually cause structural damage to a wood framed building, weakening floors and walls as it feeds on moist wooden structural members. If you suspect that mold has damaged building integrity, consult a structural engineer or other professional.

Don’t endanger your family or employees to the hazards of mold, bacteria or other microbes. When it comes to serious mold and bacteria problems, Trust the experts. SRP has certified industrial hygienists and toxicologists on staff that have been helping clients and homeowners for over 20 years.