No homeowner wants to see mold growing in bathrooms or other interior spaces. While the fungus’s signature dark and clustered appearance is typically detectable, in many cases, it can be challenging to find in tight or hard-to-reach areas. A licensed home inspection company has the training and equipment to identify mold. Here are several signs a more thorough check is needed.

How to Determine if You Should Schedule a Mold Inspection

1. Frequent Musty Odors

Damp and dark places are ideal spots for mold to thrive. When there is a proliferation of spores, you may notice a musty odor. The unpleasant scent will generally linger even after cleaning. If you notice a stale, mildew-like smell in your bathroom, basement, or other rooms, a mold inspection can pinpoint the exact source so that you can have it remediated.

2. Plumbing Leaks

Broken pipes are a common origination spot for mold. Pay attention to any water drips or leaks around faucets and drains. While mold may not have emerged yet, the spores are likely to grow if the plumbing issues are not repaired. Leaking roofs and flooded basements should also be checked for mold by a professional home inspection firm.

3. Extended Unoccupied Periods

This is common when a house has been closed for months or years. Humidity can get trapped in interior spaces, creating an environment for mold to spread. If a house has been dormant for some time, it’s best to have it completely checked by a home inspection agency before moving in. 

4. Increase in Allergic Reactions

If you or another individual living in the household have allergies, mold can heighten them. The spores trigger headaches, sore throats, watery eyes, sneezing, and breathing problems. If there has been an increase in allergic reactions that prescription or over-the-counter medications have not alleviated, mold could be the recurring cause. A thorough inspection can identify the culprit so that those with allergies can have relief after remediation. 

If you suspect your home could have mold, turn to Top To Bottom Inspection Services in McDonough, GA. They've served the metropolitan Atlanta area for over 10 years, offering general inspections and lead and mold testing. Their inspectors are certified by the American Home Inspector Training organization. They have an A ranking from the Better Business Bureau and offer competitive rates. Visit them online for more details on mold testing, or call (404) 838-0894 to request a no-obligation estimate.