The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers tips on their website for the best way to deal with water damage and mold prevention. The EPA cautions that you may need to hire the services of professionals to clean and dry your affected areas.
The tips for dealing with water damage and mold prevention include:
Books and papers
- For non-valuable items, discard books and papers.
- Photocopy valuable/important items, discard originals.
- Freeze (in frost-free freezer or meat locker) or freeze-dry.
Carpet and backing - dry within 24-48 hours
- Remove water with water extraction vacuum.
- Reduce ambient humidity levels with dehumidifier.
- Accelerate drying process with fans.
Wallboard(Drywall and gypsum board)
- May be dried in place if there is no obvious swelling and the seams are intact. If not, remove, discard, and replace.
- Ventilate the wall cavity, if possible.
The EPA also suggests throwing away and replacing water damaged ceiling tiles and insulation.
Should you discover mold visit this EPA web page dedicated to the steps you should take.
For potential home buyers in Central Florida, you will want to be sure and include the mold inspection addendum made available by the Florida Association of Realtors. This addendum will allow the time needed after receiving an accepted offer on a home to have a professional mold inspection completed. Should the inspection reveal a significant presence of mold, you are not obligated to purchase the home unless the seller agrees to remedy the situation to your satisfaction.
Please seek the advise of a professional mold inspector and remediation professional should you have questions or concerns regarding water damage and mold prevention.
Related Florida real estate views:
Should you buy a home in "as is" condition?
What are the repair obligations to the home seller when using the FAR contract?
If a hurricane results in flooding, is your home protected?
- Greg Staker - Watson Realty Corp. - 407-304-0255
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