You’re buying your dream home. However, the home inspector discovered mold in the home. You’re concerned about the health hazard. Worst of all, the seller never disclosed a mold problem.
You’re panicking at the thought of the county getting involved. Mold issues are typically smoother than many realize.
When it comes to mold, the seller should address the problem before the transaction continues. In other instances, the buyer must deal with the issue.
Regardless, buyers and sellers should contact a mold inspector for further guidance. A home inspector cannot remove the mold; they can only recommend a mold inspector.
This article will show you what to do if an Ohio home inspector finds mold. Let’s explore.
Let the Seller Take Care of the Problem
If an inspection highlights mold contamination, the responsibility falls on the seller to address the issue. If the inspection reveals any home issue (i.e. electrical issues or mold problems), the seller will usually fix the issues on behalf of the seller.
If not, the seller may issue a seller credit so the buyer can pay for the cleanup. Additionally, the seller may drop the price if the home harbors major problems.
In many states, sellers must disclose all faults within the home, including mold. Besides the mold, the seller must also address any structural complications that could have caused the mold problem.
- Example: Leaky roofs can cause rotting wood and mold formation. Therefore, the seller must fix the roof in addition to addressing the mold.
Conversely, the inspector may have found mold late into the home-buying process. If this occurs, ask the seller for additional time to find a mold inspection expert.
Contact a Mold Inspector
Above all, contact a mold inspector. A mold inspector will assess the extent of the contamination. This is something that a home inspector cannot do.
After inspecting the property, the expert will convey the severity of the problem and recommend a mold remediation company. A visit from a mold inspector typically takes between two to five hours, and the cost could range from $200 to $500. In many cases, the mold inspector is a separate party from the mold remediation company.
- Note: If possible, be onsite with the specialist as they conduct the assessment. You’ll have a chance to ask questions and gauge your comfort level with the company.
The mold removal industry doesn’t have the tightest regulations, but the following are some general guidelines to consider:
- The experts should confirm contamination with lab results.
- They should have the necessary credentials (Council-certified Indoor Environmental Consultant or Certified Industry Hygienist)
- They should have an undergraduate degree in any engineering or science-related field. In other cases, they should have taken coursework specializing in mold investigations.
Also, true experts don’t elevate the danger of a specific type of mold over another. An honest professional can also convey if you can remove the mold on your own.
The Importance of a Mold Removal Company
In most cases, mold is a toxic substance and should only be handled by a trained specialist. If you try to clean it yourself, you’ll expose yourself to a host of health hazards. Before contacting a specialist, ask the home inspector some detailed questions about the findings.
Then, consult with the inspector and the realtor on the best path forward. A real estate agent can be helpful when dealing with mold.
- Example: If there is mold in the basement, your real estate agent can tell how it can affect the property value.
An agent can recommend a qualified specialist as well.
A home inspection company cannot address mold issues because their reps are trained to inspect all aspects of the home. However, the best home inspectors should have the necessary training to spot mold issues. Overall, your best bet is to hire a mold removal expert.
Shop Around
Even if you get the name of a reputable mold removal company, you should still shop around for the best quote. Getting multiple quotes will help you weed out shady specialists that charge high rates.
That said, be skeptical of mold specialists offering low rates. They could charge low prices due to inexperience or bad reputation.
How Much Does Mold Removal Cost?
The price depends on such factors as the location of mold and the extent of the contamination. For basements or crawl spaces, the cost can range from $500 to $4,000.
Overall, most customers will pay around $2,000 on average. If the problems have spread unnoticed long-term, however, you could pay as high as $7,000.
The Mold Removal Process
The removal time depends on several factors, such as:
- The severity of the contamination
- The location of mold
- Where the mold is growing from
Experts take between 1 to 5 days to remove the mold. In severe cases, the process could take longer.
Do I Have to Stay Out of the House During the Process?
If you’re a buyer, you can still proceed with closing and move in accordingly. Mold specialists usually section off the contaminated zone, allowing occupants to stay in the home. That said, each case is different, and you should listen to the experts regarding the best solution.
Mold Is a Genuine Health Hazard
Since mold is a serious health hazard that can cause sickness, you should leave removal in the hands of a professional. If the home inspector finds mold, comb over the report in detail, and discuss it with the inspector and a real estate agent. Then, either party can recommend a mold inspector.
Want to know how to avoid home inspection nightmares? Click here to learn more.