Signs of Mold on a Home Tour

Buying a home is a significant investment and you'll want to ensure the property is not only visually appealing but also structurally sound and free from hidden issues such as mold. Mold not only poses a threat to the physical structure of the property but can also cause health issues for you and your family. Hence, it is essential to understand how to spot signs of mold when buying a home. Here are a few tips to help you out:

1. Be Aware if They're Trying to Hide the Problem

If something seems off about the tour, like the heat isn't on and it is winter, or all the blinds are closed and the house is really dark, they may be trying to hide the mold from you. Mold odors are more obvious when it is warm. The seller's agent's job is to make the home as welcoming as possible, so if the house is cold and the rooms are dark, you have to wonder why and pay closer attention for signs of mold.

Look closely at the walls and ceilings for paint patches, which might be a sign that they cut out mold previously and plastered the area.

2. Use Your Nose

One of the most obvious signs of mold is a musty, damp smell. This scent is often the first and most reliable indicator of a mold problem. While touring a potential home, pay attention to any unusual odors, especially in basements, bathrooms, and other areas that could be prone to dampness.

3. Look for Visual Signs

Visible mold is a clear indicator of a problem, but it's important to know what you're looking for. Mold comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, green, or even pink. It may appear as spots or clusters and is often found in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and around windows.

If the home still has the previous owner's things in it, pay attention if they have dehumidifiers in the basement or attic. If not, it is almost a guarantee for mold in those areas.

Look for pronged holes in drywall and wood where leaks might occur. If you see two pin holes in the walls or ceiling, this might be from a moisture meter used to detect leaks.

4. Check for Water Damage

Water damage can often lead to mold growth if not promptly and properly addressed. Stains or discolorations on walls, ceilings, or floors can be a sign of past or current water issues. Peeling or bubbled paint, warped wood, or crumbling drywall may also be indicators of water damage and potential mold.

Pay attention to the structure of the house and where pipes and water damage might occur. Is the washing machine on the 2nd floor? Look underneath it on the 1st floor for any signs of water damage.

5. Look Outside at the Windows and Roof

We often get caught up on the inside, but outside leaks are a major cause of mold. Look closely at the quality of the windows and the capping surrounding them. Are there any gaps? 

Are the gutters connected properly? Does it look like rain has a clear path from the roof to away from your house? Any obvious signs of puddle build ups around the base of the house to the basement? 

Put on your engineer hat and imagine what this house looks like in a 5-day rainstorm. Where is the water flowing?

6 Consider a Professional Inspection

While these tips can help you spot potential mold issues, nothing beats the certainty of a professional mold inspection. Mold inspectors have the training and equipment to find hidden mold that might be missed by the untrained eye. They can also identify the type of mold, the extent of the infestation, and suggest the best remediation methods.

7. Look at the House's History

Inquire about the home's history. Has it experienced flooding or other water-related issues? If the property has a history of water damage, there's a higher likelihood of mold presence. The sellers are usually obligated to disclose such information, so don't shy away from asking.

Mold might not be a dealbreaker for buying the home, but it can certainly help you negotiate a better price if you are aware of it. If it is only in one area, that is not too big a deal, but if there are signs in multiple areas on multiple floors, you probably want to save yourself the headache of fixing it.

Be vigilant, know what to look for, and don't hesitate to call in a professional if you suspect mold might be hiding in your potential new home.