Foreclosure property with excessive mold

[Jason Tougas]

I have been analyzing a foreclosure property in San Antonio, Texas which has been found to have extensive mold damage throughout multiple rooms of the home due to a plumbing leak left untouched. Mold spore concentrations were

Measured to be 225,000 spores/m^3 at the worst location in the home and decline in various other rooms of the home.

My concern (or rather question) refers to the “requirements” for mold remediation— the listing documents include (3) mitigation estimates ranging for $60 -$120k along with the scientific specimen results from the contractor that performed the mold assessment. This information is obviously a known condition so would need to be included on all disclosures, but what else would need to be provided for resale or to future renters?

I generally complete my own rehab work, but with this being a “known & potentially dangerous” condition, would I need to use an approved mold removal contractor to complete this work before listing to resell or rent?

What follow-up inspections would be required or what else would you all recommend to protect myself?

Would It be wise to remove the mold (drywall, carpet/pad etc) and have new tests conducted prior to rehab?

[Chris Seveney]

@Jason Tougas

I would strongly recommend you use a third-party, mold remediation company for something of that large an issue. If you did not, use a licensed contractor and the mold was not remediated properly the liability that you would face personally would be significant.

As will you disclose it was not remediated with a licensed contractor?