Question - Black Mold Inspection?

Question

Hello all, I am fairly new to investing in residential real estate.  I remember hearing alot of bad things about black mold (and other types of mold) a few years back.  This includes properties being uninhabitable due to mold issues.  I understand that the mold problems usually arise from either 1) water leaks that go unfixed for a long time, and 2) use of substandard materials.  
 
Regardless of how mold problems occur, I am wanting to know "How can I avoid owning a property with this type of problem?".  Is there an inspection available for potential mold problems?  Is there any way to protect against buying a house with mold problems?
 
Any input is appreciated.
 
Thanks,
Rob

N/A N/A · Answer

Yes, mold IS very dangerous. Especially the types of the fungus that produce and release TOXINS in the air. Black mold, for example.

Health problems related to this mold have been documented in humans and animals since the 1930s. More recently, Stachybotrys Chartarum has been linked with so-called sick building syndrome. Stachybotrys Chartarum is a mycotoxin producer that can cause animal and human mycotoxicosis*. In one particular 1993-1994 case, Black Mold was implicated in the fatal lung hemmorhages of several infants in Cleveland, Ohio. Stachybotrys Chartarum will grow readily on the unseen paper backing of drywall, ceiling tile, paper moisture barriers, wallpaper, and other paper or wood products, especially in bath and shower areas where constant moisture is present. Symptoms of Black Mold exposure can include cold and flu symptoms, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), memory loss, achiness, diarrhea, headaches, sore throats, dermatitis, hair loss, and even cancer. Animal tests have indicated the mold attacks the lungs, brain, thymus, spleen, heart, lymph nodes, kindeys and liver. 
 
I got that little snippet from the post in this thread. You don't have to be allergic to mold to breathe in the toxins it can release. So again, yes - mold is very dangerous. Whoever told you otherwise is dead wrong. A 5 minute internet search can give you all of the information you need.

*mycotoxicosis is a disease caused by any fungal toxins (called mycotoxins)

Matt H · Answer

Actually I think I have some of that black stuff growing in my ears.

Michael Rossi · Answer

Charles,

I attended a mold remediation seminar last year.  The instructor said that Joy (or similar brand) dishwashing detergent mixed in water is more effective at removing mold than bleach.  According to him, the diswashing detergent removes more of the "root".

Mike

Michael Rossi · Answer

Charles,

You won't pass out and as an added benefit, you will be SPARKLING CLEAN and you won't have water spots!

Mike

Matt H · Answer

So mold can cause harm to anyone? Really? Like what?

Michael Rossi · Answer

Mold is "very dangerous"?  Who told you that?

I have dozens of rentals and somehow have done quite well without ever using a home inspector and certainly not a certified mold inspector.  I'm in the rental business.  It is part of my business to know how to inspect a property prior to purchase.

Mike

N/A N/A · Answer

Mold is very dangerous regardless if you are allergic or not. Before buying a property, hire a home inspector who has training to look for mold. Home inspections are absolutely vital.

Matt H · Answer

I think Mike is right. I think you have to be allergic to it. I think what's worse is if a house has like colonies of bugs.

N/A N/A · Answer

Anytime you buy a house you defnitely need to have the house thoroughly inspected by a professional. This will cost a few hundred dollars but in the grand scheme of things it is a great investment. What if the house has foundation problems, or major plumbing problems, that require replumbing the house?

If there is reason to suspect or you see mold, you may need to get a mold specialist. Although some molds are benign, some kinds of mold like Black Mold can be dangerous especially for young children. There is some information on black mold here http://ultrabot.net/black-mold_symptoms/

Good luck with your investing!

Michael Rossi · Answer

SpaceCowboy,

You can walk through the house and look for mold.  That's the easiest way to determine if there is mold.  Or you can pay a mold inspector several hundred dollars to check for mold.

The truth is that all houses have mold.  It is a normal part of life and unless someone is allergic to it, there usually is no problem.

There are enough real things to worry about without worrying about mold.

Mike

Question - Black Mold Inspection?

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