Posts Tagged ‘mold prevention’
How Do I Convince My Landlord That Mold is a Serious Issue?
My next door neighbors and I have a very serious problem. Our landlord has been renting out the duplex we are living in, knowing full well of the many problems that are currently plaguing our respective homes. Among these problems are collapsing roofs, collapsing shower floors, and water damaged kitchen sinks. But most of all, he is fully aware of the mold problems that are currently going on. The fact that he knows about it is bad enough.
However, he has been advised by both tenants in the last several months that it would be in his best interests to find a way to remove the mold infestations. Both bathrooms have visible mold throughout. It has become difficult for me personally to even shower and bathe regularly because of this, for I fear that my health is worsening. Despite these advisements and concerns being voiced, our landlord has deemed the mold problem a low priority matter.
While he has deemed it a low priority matter, I have noticed that the occupants – myself included – have suffered from increased illness, including sinus infections, coughing, headaches, nausea, and other varied illnesses. My roommate, who has a strengthened immune system, has even suffered through similar symptoms.
Short of going behind my landlord’s back and reporting him to the health department, I see no other course of action to improve the situation. Thankfully, I am moving out soon, as is my roommate. My only hope is to help others by finding a way to resolve the matter, and spreading the word to others to watch for mold and other problems when looking at apartments or houses to move into. Mold is a very serious matter and is not to be taken lightly.
Choosing a Good Mold Inspection Company
Have you ever found that you had a cold that just would not go away? Perhaps noticed that your allergies have gotten worse over time? The truth of the matter is, a home mold infestation can often be the real culprit behind these things. Most people are allergic to mold, and it can do a great deal of damage to your health if it is left to grow and multiply. Having an occasional mold inspection done can prevent serious health risks, but also, damage to the property itself can be avoided.
Mold inspections should be done by companies who are qualified to do the job, but also, those who have a solid reputation for excellence and honesty. The best way to show that you are in fact dealing with a professional is that generally speaking, you will receive a mold inspection report, but also, there are a number of certifications out there available. The report itself should include not only where the mold has been found, what type of mold it is, but also, what you can do to combat the mold and prevent it from reoccurring.
Lower prices are not usually a good indicator of a good company- make sure that you pay attention to the qualifications, rather than price and look at if there have been reports filed with the Better Business Bureau and if the inspector is working on commission. Also, finding out what you will pay for mold removal services after the fact is a good way to make sure that your budget is ready for the task at hand.
Wherever you are located, you’re sure to find many different options in not only mold inspection but also removal. Find one that has the best technology for the job, and one that can not only identify areas that are infected, but also- those which may become infected if changes are not made. Often, a good inspector will make sure that you are aware not only of active problem areas, but the potential risk factors associated with other areas and what you can do to prevent an infestation.
Many smaller mold abatement jobs can be done by the homeowner themselves- this is true, however, there are also other considerations. If the person who will be doing the abatement is allergic, this is not a good option, or, if the area that is infected is a good size and needs other repairs done- it may be best to leave it to the professionals. There are a number of different ways to remove the mold, however, also being sure that it cannot or won’t come back is key and often, those trained to do so will have a better handle on this than those simply tackling the job alone.
Whatever your mold removal and inspection needs are, be sure to shop around. Do your due diligence, and be sure that you are comfortable with the inspector and that you are being told exactly what you need to feel good about the job being done. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions about infected or possibly infected areas, and you will find that not only the inspection but removal of the mold is much easier and your health better protected.
Mold and air quality testing is essential to those buying new homes. Even for owners of old homes it is important to detect these things because they could lead to health issues for inhabitants. If you are in the Northern Utah area and require more information from an experienced mold inspection company, call The Flood Co. today! When you have questions, air quality testing for mold is a good place to start in your search for answers to many questions you may have regarding a potential mold problem. Utah’s preferred mold testing and mold inspection company. For more information please or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at 1-866-400-8357.