When buying an existing home, there are a few ways to ensure you aren’t purchasing a home that may have a mold intrusion that you may get stuck with fixing yourself:
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The attic and basement are the primary areas you should have inspected for mold.
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Have the home Thermal Imaged for insulation quality or lack thereof.
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Moisture meter readings should be performed.
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The home should consistently be at 45% humidity or less, and a dehumidifier should be in place.
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Overall, materials in the home should have a reading of 11% or under. You have a high risk of mold growth if it is 14-15% or higher.
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A damp, musty smell is almost always an indicator of mold growth despite current weather conditions or if the home has been closed up for a significant amount of time.
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The basement should have a functioning sump pump with up-to-date, perforated drain tile. Outdated clay drains deteriorate over time and are typically found in homes over 40 years of age. A floating slab with no standing water in the slab’s trenches is also important.
Being proactive before purchasing your future home can save you a lot of headaches and money.