A Home Buyer's Guide to Mold: Spot It, Prevent It, Treat It
Mold is one of the most common and most misunderstood problems a home buyer can face, and it is far cheaper to find before closing than after. Mold needs only moisture, a food source such as wood or drywall, and time, and it can start growing on a wet surface within 24 to 48 hours. The good news: mold is manageable. If you know what to look for, what to ask, and how to keep your home dry, you can buy with confidence. This guide covers how to spot mold, how to protect yourself during the purchase, how to prevent it once you move in, and how to get it treated if it shows up. What mold is and how to spot it Mold is a fungus that spreads through tiny airborne spores. Spores are everywhere, so the question is never whether they exist in a home but whether moisture lets them grow. Mold can cause real problems: stuffy nose, wheezing, coughing, and irritated eyes or skin are common, and people with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems can be affected more severely. During a showing, w...
