The day you closed on your new home, it all felt like a dream come true. Even the big job of moving in was fun as you began arranging each room to perfection.
It might have been several days before you realized something was very wrong. You followed your nose and found mold in the house after the purchase.
This scenario occurs more often than you think. Our mold removal technicians help homeowners deal with mold problems in newly purchased houses all across Chicago.
It can happen to you. Do you know what to do if you find mold in your new house?
You Bought a House With Mold Problems: 5 Things You Need to Do Now
No one ever imagines they’re buying a house with mold problems. You assume the home inspection process uncovers potential problems, but even newly constructed homes can harbor hidden mold.
If you find mold in your house after you purchase the property, follow these five steps to resolution and recovery.
1. Confirm the Mold Type
It’s important to know exactly what type of mold you’re up against. Exposure to toxic mold can result in symptoms ranging from rashes to respiratory illness.
There are DIY test kits available that identify different types of fungal growth. If you have any ongoing health issues, it’s safer to leave testing to a certified mold removal company.
2. Try to Determine Liability
It’s possible that the seller didn’t disclose a mold problem because he or she wasn’t aware of it. Before you bought the house, the original home inspection report should have noted signs of leaks or mold.
Hire a second home inspector to confirm and document mold growth and damages that were originally overlooked.
3. Talk With an Attorney
If you believe the seller was aware of your new home’s mold problem, talk to an attorney. Share documentation from the second home inspection report.
The Illinois Residential Real Property Disclosure Act doesn’t specifically cover mold, but it does cite issues related to recurring leaks and plumbing defects. Still, you may need evidence of intent. For example, if the seller painted over mold, you could have a strong case.
4. Reach Out to the Seller
Make the seller aware of the situation. He or she might be willing to pay for necessary repairs as well as mold removal and remediation.
If not, your attorney can draw up a demand letter detailing the problem and the reasons you believe the seller should assume responsibility.
There are several different ways to approach the seller with hopes of a positive resolution outside the court system.
5. Take Care of Repairs, Removal and Remediation
You want to clean up the mold growth and address its moisture source as soon as possible. Don’t put things off while you’re trying to negotiate with the seller.
Mold growth spreads very quickly, but you can take care of small outbreaks with DIY mold cleanup. If affected areas cover more than 3 square feet or include porous materials like drywall, bring in a mold remediation contractor.
Consider the Benefits of Professional Mold Removal
Even if mold cleanup in your new home looks like an easy job, think twice about handling it by yourself. Talk with a restoration company that specializes in mold removal. Certified technicians handle everything from independent mold testing to drywall tear-out and reconstruction.
You also enjoy these important benefits.
- Restoration teams address all structural damage caused by mold including rotted wood framing.
- They follow up with industry-proven mitigation techniques that keep mold from coming back.
- From start to finish, you have detailed documentation of all completed work and accrued expenses.
- You enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing the mold problem in your new house is resolved.
We Help You Feel at Home Again
It can take time to work things out with a seller after you’ve closed on the house. While most individuals are fair and honest, you may not reach an agreement that satisfies all parties.
Still, you need to address unhealthy mold growth immediately. Quick action minimizes property damage and protects your health.
Our teams are ready to help with expert mold removal and remediation. As Chicago’s leading restoration contractor, we’re uniquely positioned to handle all kinds of water damage problems including small plumbing repairs.
Give us a call here at ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba. Let us help you finally feel at home in your new dream house.
