Mold, Misinformation and
Scare Tactics
Our office receives dozens of phone calls every month from homeowners and perspective purchasers who are in a state of panic and anxiety over mold issues. Often their level of anxiety is directly related to a person or website expressing fear and misinformation to motivate people to act in haste. In reality they may have a mold issue which requires a small maintenance action to fix and their fears are unnecessary. Here are a few rules of thumb to help take the fear out of mold scenarios and to make better informed decisions:
- Know the facts. Example: A "Toxic Mold Type" found by lab identification such as Stachybotrys is not necessarily a "Toxic Mold Condition." Whether there is a hazardous mold condition, which may cause health issues, is based on many variables, not just the mold type. You need to know the size and risks of the scenario to make decisions.
- Small mold issues can be simple issues to clean up. (Small = less than 5 to 10 square feet of affected surface area.) Large mold issues need more attention and usually involve more systemic mold growth on building materials and contents. The exposure risk, size and density of the mold growth should determine the appropriate set of actions in remediation or clean-up.
- Do not act out of fear. Be aware some mold inspection firms use scare tactics to sell services which may not be necessary or are beyond a practical approach.
- Be suspicious of an unsolicited "Mold Remediation Proposal" included with your inspection report. A mold inspection report should provide facts and recommendations. A "Remediation Proposal" should not be included or offered as part of an inspection report unless you have specifically requested it.
- Get a second opinion. If you are uncertain about the meaning of a mold inspection report, get another opinion before you act on recommendations. It can save you money and heartache.
- Use common sense to make judgment. Ask lots of questions and expect clear, meaningful answers that make sense. Steer away from confusing language and vague explanations. If remediation is needed, a clearly written detailed scope of work should be provided.
If you suspect mold growth or have any questions, we can help! Give RTS Environmental Services, Inc. a call at 1-800-722-5589 or if you are in Maryland, 301-607-6276.
|
