How To Prevent Mold Growth in Your Rental Property

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Turn off the water

Three Simple Mold Prevention Tips

The presence of indoor mold within a rental property can create a hassle for property owners and tenants as well as cause significant structural damage to the building. Here are three simple mold prevention tips to help keep your rental home safely mold-free.

1. Turn Off the Water

Water damage is one of the leading causes of mold growth. Sometimes leaks can be difficult to detect, especially if the leaking pipes are concealed behind walls or ceilings. Look for unexpected increases in the water bill. Also check for stains or signs of warping on walls, floors and ceilings, and watch for corrosion on the pipes themselves. If you or your tenants find any evidence of leaking pipes or interior flooding, turn off the water supply immediately. Call a plumber and a water remediation expert to properly address the situation.

2. Keep the Heat On

If you are looking to save money on winter heating costs, consider lowering your heat rather than turning it off completely. Cold temperatures increase the risk of frozen pipes and ice dams. Freezing pipes can crack or burst, leading to leaks that foster the development of mold. Similarly, ice dams that do not properly drain when melting may back up into the ceiling, walls and insulation.

3. Maintain Low Humidity

Although mold prevention must still be taken into consideration during winter, summertime humidity is often a larger concern when it comes to mold growth. Consistent humidity and dampness in the air may provide enough moisture to cause mold. For the best air quality, indoor relative humidity should be kept below 50%. Consider using a dehumidifier to provide additional climate control within your rental home, as air conditioning units alone typically do not lower humidity enough to prevent mold.

Mold prevention is an important part of maintaining a rental property in Burton, OH. Whether you are seeking restoration in the aftermath of water damage or are in need of cleanup services for a current mold problem, mold remediation and water damage restoration specialists are available to provide round-the-clock assistance.