Many property owners are boosting their bottom line by hosting vacation and long-term rentals. However, seasonal homes that are closed up for long periods of time become a prime breeding ground for mold. To keep income flowing, owners need to prevent mold from growing.
Jim Oliver, co-founder of Natural Home Solutions LLC, a mold remediation company serving Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire, advises vacation rental hosts, landlords and property managers to take the following measures from lodgify.com to maintain mold-free properties:
Keep water out by routinely inspecting the outside of the property for foundation problems, poorly installed windows, clogged gutters, roof concerns, poor drainage and storm damage.
Keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Use a portable dehumidifier in areas that are consistently above 60% humidity. Consider a HVAC-compatible, whole house dehumidifier as well. Prices range from $1,300-$2,800.
Install bathroom fans and attic vents to remove moisture.
Use mold-resistant building materials like wallboard, paint primer and porcelain. Avoid carpeting basements. In other areas, rugs with a higher pile are more prone to collecting mold and mildew than short-pile rugs.
Winterize plumbing and shut off water to appliances and outside faucets in cold weather climates.
“If you delay necessary remediation efforts, you may become legally responsible for mold-related illnesses or property damage. If a resident pursues litigation despite your best efforts, our professional testing process documents important evidence. It can also provide an expert opinion to
Individual landlords are also responsible for identifying and resolving unhealthy or unsafe conditions on their property. When left unresolved, mold sometimes sickens tenants, especially those with existing respiratory issues. It often causes visible and hidden structural deterioration, and it can damage a tenant’s personal property.
Mold spores grow quickly when they have enough moisture, warmth, and a porous surface. By the time a renter or property owner notices a moldy odor, mold contamination already has the potential to cause harm. Regular professional testing can detect mold contamination early enough to prevent serious problems and avoid costly property repairs.
Oliver explains the EnzyCleanseTM fogger produces micro-droplets small enough to penetrate contaminated surfaces and reach areas like wall cavities to break down mold roots and spores, thus eliminating contaminations. EnzyCleanseTM also continues working to prevent mold growth long after the treatment.
Natural Home Solutions is committed to keeping homes and businesses safe from mold contamination. Serving Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire, the professional team performs high-quality mold testing and nontoxic, nondestructive remediation at an economical price.
