Tips for Detecting and Preventing Mold in a Home

MIAMI, Fla. — Hurricanes and other severe storms, a humid climate, leaky pipes, or continuous rain can make homes susceptible to flooding and mold. According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), molds are a natural part of the environment. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed.

How can you tell if you have mold in your home?

The EPA notes that if the home smells moldy, even when mold isn't visible, or if water stains are present, mold could be growing nearby. It may be hidden in places such as the backside of drywall, wallpaper, paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, and the underside of carpets and pads. Other possible locations include areas inside walls around leaking pipes, surfaces of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles.

"Mold can be overwhelming for homeowners, but prevention and quick action make all the difference," said Mechele Agbayani Mills, president and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas. "Act quickly, research carefully, and only work with trusted businesses.

The right steps can help protect both your property and your peace of mind." Water damage restoration can range from vacuuming up water and drying out a room to rebuilding entire sections of your home. Investigating hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when disturbing potential sites of growth. If the mold covers more than about 10 square feet, experts recommend hiring a professional and asking that they follow recognized remediation standards, such as EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings or IICRC protocols.

When contemplating the cleanup of mold or water damage, verify the extent of the problem and contact a trustworthy water damage restoration company. BBB cautions people to research carefully when choosing a professional and recommends the following: Quick action is key. One of the most important updates from EPA guidance is the need to dry and ventilate affected areas within 24 to 48 hours of water intrusion. Delays beyond that window greatly increase the chance for mold to take hold Work with your insurance company. An insurance agent may be able to recommend a reliable and reputable water damage restoration company. Contact them first to determine what your insurance policy covers and the process for filing a claim. Contact your insurance company and inquire about policy coverage and specific filing requirements to initiate the claim process. If the home, business, and/or vehicle was damaged, document the damage by taking pictures or videos. Recognize the difference between flood insurance and homeowner's insurance.

Flood damage is typically caused by water on the ground before damaging your home. Water damage occurs when it causes damage before it encounters the ground (broken pipes, a leaky roof, etc.).

Do what you can to mitigate further damage. Dry out and disinfect impacted areas immediately to help prevent mold. Start running fans and dehumidifiers if you have concerns about wet carpets or rugs. Consult an expert to see if carpets, rugs, and furnishings can be salvaged.

Check the company's history with the Better Business Bureau. You can review the water damage restoration company's complaint history and details to determine if they have a track record of responding to and resolving BBB complaints at BBB.org. Always do your research first.

Verify the company's license. Confirm the contractor is properly licensed, insured, and registered for the scope of work they will be completing. For example, simply vacuuming water and drying out a room may not need a license, but once the company starts tearing out cabinets and walls, a license may be needed.

Ask about experience with mold remediation. Ask for references from the business and contact these references for more information. Also, ask family and friends if they have worked with a water damage restoration company or a mold remediation expert and had a favorable experience.

Obtain at least three bids. Don't simply hire the first business that contacts you or one that offers the lowest bid; evaluate the services and offerings of at least three businesses and then make your decision.

Understand the Assignment of Benefits contracts. Beware of contractors who claim to be insurance claim specialists and may ask you to sign an agreement to allow them to contact your insurance company and seek approval of repairs for you. Many unscrupulous businesses have tricked consumers into signing a work estimate without reading the fine print, which commits you to automatically contract with their business if your insurance claim is approved.

Be wary of contractors going door-to-door. Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Always get a written contract specifying the work, price breakdown, and timeline. Never pay in full upfront, and avoid cash payments.

Keep in mind: There is no practical way to remove every mold spore from a home. The key is controlling moisture, fixing leaks quickly, and preventing the conditions where mold thrives.

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