As a common fungus that’s found throughout nature, mold may not seem like a major problem for a prospective homeowner who’s eager to buy. But these growths can indicate a variety of issues with the property, as well as impact your wellness in the home. For these reasons, buyers should arrange professional mold testing to see if this threat is hiding in an unseen area of the property.

Why Should You Be Concerned About Mold in a New Home?

1. Water Damage

Mold spores need moisture to grow. If growth is spotted in an area that’s not normally damp or humid—such as a basement, laundry room, or bathroom—the only other possible source of moisture is a leak. When unresolved leaks are present, there’s a good chance that there is considerable water damage that the current homeowners may not have known about or disclosed.

2. Property Value

If a mold problem is extensive enough, it may start to destroy physical components of the home—including walls. This potential damage—along with the above risks—can cause the home’s value to drop significantly. If you buy a home without proper mold testing, you may be taking on a property that isn’t worth as much as you paid for.

3. Health Issues

Many people, for example, have mold allergies that will cause them to have varying reactions if they inhale these fungal spores—such as sneezing or breathing problems. Coming in contact with this substance may also exacerbate asthma, cause skin irritation, and contribute to headaches. Those affected by these issues shouldn’t expect their condition to improve until the mold is professionally removed.

Can Existing Mold Problems Be Resolved Before the Purchase?

While positive test results may be alarming for buyers, they don’t always have to be a reason for canceling an offer. If you run into this situation as a prospective buyer, you may be able to negotiate a lower purchase price with the seller.

You might also require the current owner to resolve the problem before signing. Typically, a professional restoration company can eliminate the mold by using special cleaning solutions and fixing any moisture issues behind the growth. Steps should also be taken to ensure that future growth won’t happen—such as by replacing affected surfaces with mold-resistant materials or increasing indoor ventilation.

Don’t let mold surprise you after you’ve signed for a home. Instead, book Prior To Purchase Inspection Services, LLC to conduct thorough mold testing to pinpoint any problems before you make a final offer on a house. To help ensure you’re not paying for a problematic property, this Cincinnati-area home inspection team also offers many other evaluations—including termite inspections and radon testing—to make sure you’re getting the house you want. To learn more about their certified home inspections, visit this Highland Heights, KY, business online. For estimates and appointments, call (859) 802-8561.