Mold Inspection – Symptoms of Exposure
Exposure to mold spores in a house does not always pose a health risk, and a mold inspection is not considered necessary, although there are several companies selling kits that test for mold. To quote the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), “It is not necessary to determine what type of mold you may have. All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal”.
If there is a mold condition in the house, people who are allergic or otherwise sensitive to mold may experience symptoms such as eye irritation, nasal stuffiness, or wheezing. During the interior inspection, check all rooms – especially the basement – for indications of a possible mold buildup. Keep in mind that large mold infestations can usually be seen and/or smelled, so your eyes and nose will be the best tools in this effort.
Signs of Infestation
If you notice a mold buildup on a ceiling or wall, record the condition on your worksheet for cleanup or replacement. Often, the mold can be easily removed by a thorough cleaning with bleach and water. This solution, however, is only temporary. If there is an extensive amount of mold, it is best that you hire a professional with experience in mold removal. Note that eliminating the mold condition may include discarding items affected by mold and replacing sections of walls and/or ceilings.
Basements are vulnerable to water penetration because they are below ground, so pay particular attention for any signs of past or current water problems. Mold growth is almost always due to excessive moisture. During the warmer months, however, a moldy odor in the basement is not uncommon, it is simply the result of condensation because of high relative humidity.