Mold is difficult to detect, expensive to remove, and is responsible for a myriad of health issues. The silent cause of damage to structures and a host of symptoms and health concerns.
Landlords are compelled to offer dwellings free of health hazards, including the presence of mold. If left unchecked, the harm mold inflicts can lead to significant maintenance expenses, liability issues, and potential lawsuits. The good news is that mold can be prevented before it wreaks havoc for tenants and rental units.
Property owners and managers who prioritize a proactive approach towards mold can protect the health of their renters and prevent damage to their property.
The Signs of Mold
The reality is that mold spores can appear everywhere. But when the microscopic spores set up camp and begin to reproduce, mold becomes a problem. Although early detection can indeed be challenging, preventing mold’s damaging effects is critical. The sights and smells of mold include—
- A musty odor that is strong, pungent, and mildew-like
- Dark spots on porous surfaces such as floors, walls, ceilings, carpets, and fabrics like curtains.
- Allergy-like symptoms among renters such as sneezing, a drippy nose, red and irritated eyes, a rash, shortness of breath, or a scratchy throat
Mold needs moisture and dampness to flourish. Careful monitoring of areas prone to producing mold, such as—dark basements, attics that might be hiding a leaky roof, bathrooms swirling with moisture from daily showers—should be number one on the mold prevention checklist. Don’t forget that mold also thrives in dusty, condensation-ridden conditions found in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. If a property has ever flooded or experienced water damage, the risk of mold growth increases exponentially. Routine inspections for dampness, water damage, leaks, excessive dust, and discoloration of porous surfaces across every nook and cranny of each rental property should occupy the number two spot on the checklist.
Mold Prevention
The bad news: It’s impossible to eliminate all mold spores from an indoor environment. The better news: An aggressive approach to moisture control that includes the following strategies will control mold growth.
- Repair leaky plumbing and replace leak-prone pipes
- Attend to roof leaks ASAP
- Frequently empty and clean HVAC drip pans
- Vent appliances such as dryers to the outside
- Maintain indoor humidity at or below 60%
- Encourage good airflow by opening windows, moving furniture away from walls, and opening closet doors often
- Inspect building foundations for proper drainage
Hiring A Mold Remediation Professional
If you uncover a large-scale mold problem, discover an especially toxic type of mold, or if you happen to be allergic to mold, strongly consider bringing in a professional. They will come equipped with the proper training and tools such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums, not to mention the experience to manage challenging mold situations.
Remember, it only takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to grow on a damp surface. So, live by the mantra “keep it dry,” and should water or dampness be discovered, let “dry it up ASAP!” be the guiding principle.
About Rentals America
Rentals America provides full-service property management for residential rental properties. Our team is completely dedicated to property management and we’re here to help landlords navigate the rental market.
