Spotlight on Mold

Living in the Pacific Northwest, mold is a constant threat. When Bruce and I moved into our first apartment together, we had mold growing on the walls of our bedroom. Ventilation issue. We have sure learned a lot since then.

We have purchased properties with mold issues and have been able to correct the problem fairly easily. Amazing what Kilz and bleach can accomplish! We have had some tenants with mold issues in the bathroom or laundry room. We’ve worked with them to educate them and help them, but made them responsible for the conditions breeding the mold.

Some things to watch for during turnover and maintenance inspections:

• Condensation on windows, pipes, or walls
• Water stains on ceiling
• Gutters intact and clean, water draining away from foundation, water not collecting under house
• Ventilation to outside – stove, dryer, bathroom
• Newer properties using exhaust fan and/or crack windows so moisture isn’t trapped inside
• Items that reduce circulation – interior doors always closed, furniture too close to walls, etc.
• Evidence of tenant getting excess water on the floor, keeping the unit humid (cooking, excessive houseplants/moldy soil, humidifier, doors and windows open in winter), and/or keeping wet clothing around.

We have not purchased moisture meters, but I am tempted. In our lowest income units, we do not provide closet doors; one less door to destroy, and less concerns about mold. At move in we explain hat mold issues are normally tenant caused, that the property has not had mold issues. Our rental agreement includes tips for controlling mold/mildew. We loan out a dehumidifier when problems first start. With tenants we are in the practice of using the term mildew rather than mold as well, since mold is such a buzzword.