Why a Mold Inspection Is Necessary Before You Purchase a Building
7/14/2022 (Permalink)
Why Is a Mold Inspection Required Before Purchasing a Building?
Smart investors know that their decision to purchase a commercial building hinges upon its inspection results. A mold inspection is necessary when considering buying a building near a flood zone in Phoenix, AZ.
Where Can Mold Grow?
After a flood, immediate water extraction is critical for preventing mold formation, but it may not be enough to prevent a mold problem. Although it is not always possible to detect mold with the naked eye, visible mold is usually an indication that mold exists in the following areas:
- Behind drywall
- Under floorboards
- Behind ceiling tile
- In the air
If the building you consider purchasing has experienced a flood, the chance of mold existing in these areas rises.
How Can an Inspection Help?
If you have a sound rationale for purchasing a building based upon location, price, and future profits, investing in a mold inspection might make sense. If mold exists, you may find that a mold remediation specialist can contain it to make your intended use for the property feasible and eliminate future problems. On the other hand, if the inspection substantially raises the amount you are willing to invest in the property, you might choose to forfeit its purchase.
How To Prevent Future Mold Growth?
Every commercial property has some degree of mold, and it is impossible to eliminate it; however, this doesn't mean that a building you purchase will always have a mold problem. You can take measures to reduce the humidity levels including, running dehumidifiers, avoiding and repairing leaky pipes, promptly repairing roof damage and cleaning HVAC coils and drip pans. It is also helpful to schedule periodic property walk-throughs to help detect potential problems before they become large issues that are costly to resolve.
When a mold inspection reveals mold in a building you are planning to purchase, managing it through minor repairs or costly reconstruction can affect your purchase decision.