Can Home Inspectors Detect Mold?

If you’re buying or selling a home, then chances are the thought of dealing with potential mold infestations has crossed your mind. It’s not something anyone likes to think about, but mold is a reality in most homes and is something many home buyers and sellers have to deal with. Thankfully, professional home inspectors can often bring peace of mind on this issue–they can inspect for visible signs of mold growth and also use specialized tools and techniques to identify its presence.

At Towne & Country Building Inspectors, we provide thorough home inspections for buyers and sellers in Milwaukee and surrounding communities. Read on to learn more about how home inspectors detect mold and, if it’s found in a home you’re buying or selling, what you should do next.

Looking for a Milwaukee home inspector? Contact Towne & Country today.

What is mold, and why is it dangerous? 

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in moist, humid environments. It can produce allergens, irritants and even potentially toxic compounds known as mycotoxins. Exposure to these substances can cause symptoms such as skin irritation, respiratory problems, fatigue and nausea. Long-term exposure may also increase the risk of developing certain illnesses such as asthma and lung infections.

Can home inspectors detect mold in a home during an inspection? 

Yes, home inspectors are trained to look for signs of moisture and mold during a home inspection. They can often spot visible growth on walls or ceilings, musty odors that may indicate the presence of mold, and areas where water damage has occurred in the past. If any problems are found, the home buyers or sellers can then decide their next step, which may include hiring a mold remediation specialist or walking away from the home.

Where do home inspectors commonly find mold in homes?  

Mold thrives in a wet environment and is normally found anywhere there is moisture, such as bathrooms, basements and attics. However, it can also be present in other parts of the home that don’t normally get wet. Home inspectors look for signs of mold growth on walls, floors and ceilings. They also check around windows and doors to look for condensation or water damage. Many home inspectors use a special tool to detect mold behind bathroom walls. In short, because mold is such a serious issue, a home inspector will look closely for signs of mold and mildew growth in all areas of a home.

What should homeowners do if they suspect there is mold in their home? 

If a homeowner suspects that there might be mold present in their home, they should call a professional to inspect the area and identify any potential problems. Professional mold remediation companies can assess the extent of the problem, recommend treatments and help to ensure that the home is safe. They also provide advice on steps that can be taken to prevent mold from growing in the future. Because mold can be so dangerous, it’s best to take care of the issue as soon as you notice signs of mold growth in a home.

Should you buy a home with mold growth?  

It depends. If the mold growth is minor and can be quickly remediated, then it may not be a problem. However, if the extent of the contamination is more serious or widespread, then it may be best to avoid purchasing the home as there could be hidden costs associated with cleaning up the issue. It’s always best to have a professional inspect the home first to understand the extent of the mold growth.

While it may not seem like a big deal, mold can actually be quite dangerous to your health. That’s why it’s so critical to have a professional home inspection if you’re planning to buy or sell your home, or if you want to increase your knowledge about a home you already own. Should you buy a home with mold growth? It really depends on the severity of the issue. If it is something that can be easily fixed, then you may be able to get the house at a discounted price. However, if the problem is more severe, it might be best to walk away from the sale altogether

Towne & Country is here to help you every step of the way when it comes to buying or selling your home. We hope this article armed you with some knowledge about mold and what to look for during the inspection process. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, go ahead and contact us today. Looking for a home inspector in Milwaukee? Towne & Country has years of experience helping local home buyers and sellers. Contact us today!