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My job as your professional home inspector is to alert you, to the
extent possible, to unknown problems and potential environmental
hazards in your current or potential house. Just because some of
these hazards may be invisible, this does not mean they call for
less vigilance on your part. Mine is a non-invasive visual inspection
of your property.
While I may be able to alert you to possible problems,
my basic home inspections are no substitutes for specialized contaminant
testing.
Certain
environmental and home hazard inspections are licensed by the State
of Illinois and for this reason, I have 'partnered' with experienced,
licensed professionals in each field so you can recieve the best
opinion in any phase of the inspection process.
Mold
Mold
(fungi) is present everywhere, indoors and outdoors. There are more
than 100,000 species of mold, at least 1,000 of which are common
in America. Species of Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus
are some of the most commonly found species.
Mold most likely grows in bathrooms, basements, and anywhere else where there is dampness
or water. Many types of mold routinely encountered aren’t hazardous
to healthy individuals. Too much exposure to mold may cause a worsening
of such conditions as asthma, hay fever, or other allergies. Fevers
and breathing problems in a vulnerable individual are possible but
unusual. When moldy material becomes damaged or disturbed, spores,
which are reproductive bodies similar to seeds, can be released
into the air. Exposure can occur if people inhale the spores, directly
handle moldy material, or accidentally ingest the spores.
Since all molds need water to grow, mold can grow almost anywhere where
there is high humidity, dampness, or water damage. Most often molds
are confined to areas near the water source. Removing the source
of moisture through repairs or dehumidification is crucial in preventing
mold growth.
Correcting underlying water damage and cleaning the affected area
is the best way to treat mold. If mold contamination is extensive,
a professional abatement company may be needed.
Indoor
Mold Info:
"Illinois Department of Public Health"
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