Why SERVPRO Can Help if You’re Selling a Home with Mold

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Basements are the prime space in homes that are prone to mold growth.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, one issue you may have to deal with is the presence of mold Unfortunately, a mold problem can be quite common in homes where there are persistent sources of water and moisture – and a significant mold issue can make it difficult to sell your home with a good return on your investment. 

Here at SERVPRO of Eatontown / Long Branch, we know how difficult it can be to deal with mold. While a small mold problem – less than 10 sq. ft. – is something you may be able to clean on your own, mold can also easily get out of control, especially if it’s growing behind walls or above ceiling tiles, etc.

While dealing with a significant mold problem is never pleasant, the issue can be especially challenging if you want to now sell your home.

Don’t make the process of selling your home harder than it has to be! Here’s a simple 3-step process for dealing with a major mold issue before you put your house up for sale:

If you suspect a mold problem, get an inspection

There are common signs that indicate you may have a mold problem. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to have your home professionally inspected so you know exactly the extent of the problem you may have:

• Signs of visible mold on walls, ceilings, or floors
• Stains or discoloration
• Musty smells
• Building materials that are deteriorating or “soft”
• Sudden or persistent respiratory problems or allergic reactions

Make sure to disclose the mold problem

If you currently have or have recently had a mold problem, this information is something you must include in your disclosure agreement.

It’s a good idea to be as specific and detailed as possible about the extent of the mold problem and the steps you have taken or will take to solve it. Make sure to document the process and provide proof of work through reports, receipts, and paperwork.

Get the help of a trusted professional mold removal provider

When you’re going to be selling your home, you want to make sure you hire trained, licensed and/or certified professionals to remove the mold.

This is important, because an expert mold removal provider will not only have the advanced equipment and training needed to thoroughly clean and sanitize the affected area, they will also be equipped to address the water source that caused the mold problem in the first place.

Reputation matters, and you want to be able to show future buyers that your mold problem was fixed by a name they can trust.

Document all aspects of the mold remediation and removal process

When you’re planning to sell your home, it’s a good idea to save all the paperwork associated with any mold remediation services you get. This includes the initial estimate, work order, and any mold testing reports.

It’s also a good idea to document the process with before and after photos, including photos you take with your smartphone.

While this may seem overdone, it’s better to be more cautious than not. In the event that a future buyer files a legal claim against you, a court will be looking for these kinds of records in order to side in your favor.

SERVPRO of Eatontown / Long Branch has been a trusted mold remediation and removal provider for homes throughout Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex and Mercer Counties. Our team of experts can handle all aspects of a mold problem to make sure your home is ready for sale.

If you’re interested to find out more about how SERVPRO can help fix your mold problem for good, just give us a call at: 732-858-5196