Last month, an article in the Washington Post illustrated the challenges involved with diagnosing and eliminating mold from indoor environments, specifically referencing a residential condo. We all know that the struggle is real! Whether a slow drip from a cracked pipe, condensation due to aging HVAC equipment, flooding of a construction site, or a major roof/window leak, water intrusion can lead to a mold problem that persists even after a concerted cleanup and repair effort. We also know that spraying the surface of a wall with mold/mildew "killer" is not recommended by EPA because the only way to effectively rid the area of mold is to remove and replace moldy drywall. The persistent smell of mildew is a clear sign that mold is still growing, perhaps inside the walls. Often, a deeper investigation is needed, and it could end up involving the wallboard, insulation, and even wood framing.
Yet mold doesn't have to be a show stopper. Whether the mold impacts a small number of units, a construction or renovation site, or the entire building, remediation should be managed by a professional who can fully diagnose the problem, make sure that mold is safely and effectively removed along with any damaged materials, protect business as usual for your staff, ensure the health of workers and tenants, and provide an authoritative mold-free certification.
Humans have been battling indoor mold & mildew since the beginning of civilization, and it can be a costly health threat to building inhabitants. However, with proactive monthly inspections during construction or remediation, property managers can prevent moisture intrusion, catch mold growth BEFORE it becomes an overwhelming issue, maintain work schedules, and confirm mold eradication, which reduces liability & keeps business moving forward. at a per-unit cost comparable to installing a garbage disposal.
Comments