What Happens if Mold Is Found During Home Inspection?

Buying or selling a house is one of the most exciting milestones in life, but it can also be a stressful process. Among the many concerns, one issue that often causes anxiety is the discovery of mold during a mold inspection. Mold can be hidden in places you may not expect, and while it’s a common problem in many homes, it can lead to serious issues if not addressed. Whether you’re the buyer or the seller, finding mold can raise questions about your health, the safety of the property, and how much money you might need to spend to resolve the issue.

Mold can cause a variety of health problems, especially for those with respiratory issues, allergies, or asthma. It can also result in costly damage to your home, impacting structural elements like wood beams, drywall, and insulation. More than just an aesthetic concern, mold can seriously affect the air quality in your home, making it less comfortable to live in and potentially lowering your property value. That’s why it’s important to schedule a professional mold inspection with trusted experts like PureClean Mold Inspection. A thorough inspection can help identify the scope of the problem and give you the information you need to make informed decisions about the property.

What Is Mold and Why Is It a Problem?

How Mold Grows in Homes

Mold is a type of fungus that grows where there is too much moisture. It can grow on wood, drywall, carpet, or tiles. Leaky pipes, floods, and poor ventilation can create the perfect place for mold to grow. You may not always see it, but it can still be there—hiding behind walls or under the floor.

Why Mold Can Be Harmful to Your Health

Breathing in mold spores can make people feel sick. It may cause sneezing, coughing, headaches, or itchy eyes. People with asthma or allergies may feel worse in a moldy home. That’s why spotting mold early and getting a mold inspection is important.

Signs That Mold Might Be Present

• Musty or earthy smells
  
  
• Black or green spots on walls or ceilings
  
  
• Peeling paint or wallpaper
  
  
• Damp areas or water stains
  
  
• People in the home feeling sick or having breathing problems
  
  

What Do Home Inspectors Look For?

Can a Home Inspector Identify Mold?

Home inspectors can spot signs that suggest mold, but they don’t usually test for it. If they think mold is present, they may recommend a full mold inspection from a certified company like PureClean Mold Inspection.

What Happens if Mold Is Suspected?

If mold is suspected, don’t panic. The next step is to have a proper mold inspection to find out how serious the problem is. A mold inspection checks for mold in hidden areas and tests the air for mold spores.

When to Call for a Professional Mold Inspection

You should call a professional if:

• You smell something musty
  
  
• Someone in the house has breathing problems
  
  
• There are visible signs of water damage
  
  
• The home inspector suggests a closer look
  
  

The Mold Inspection & Testing Process

Step 1: Visual Check and Moisture Detection

The inspector will first walk through the house and look for signs of mold or moisture. They may use tools to find damp areas behind walls or under floors.

Step 2: Mold Sampling (Air or Surface)

The next step is to take samples from the air or surfaces. This helps find out if mold spores are present and how many.

Step 3: Lab Testing and Report

The samples are sent to a lab, where experts look at them under a microscope. This helps identify the type of mold and how much is in the home.

Step 4: Recommendations for Next Steps

Once the results are ready, the mold inspector will give you a report. If there’s a problem, they’ll tell you what to do to fix it. PureClean Mold Inspection provides easy-to-understand reports and guidance.

What to Do If Mold Is Found During a Home Inspection

For Buyers: Should You Still Buy the House?

It depends on how bad the mold problem is. Some mold can be cleaned easily. But if it’s serious, you may want the seller to fix it first or lower the price.

For Sellers: What Are Your Options?

If mold is found, it’s best to fix the problem before selling. This helps avoid delays and gives buyers confidence. A clean mold inspection report from PureClean Mold Inspection can make the sale go smoother.

Mold Addendums in Real Estate Contracts

Sometimes, buyers and sellers sign a special form (called a mold addendum) that explains how mold will be handled before the sale is final.

Mold Remediation: How Is Mold Removed?

Finding a Mold Removal Professional

If you have a serious mold problem, it’s important to hire a trained mold removal expert. They wear safety gear and use special tools to get rid of the mold safely.

What Is the Process Like?

Mold removal may involve:

• Sealing off the area
  
  
• Cleaning or removing moldy materials
  
  
• Using air filters
  
  
• Drying the space completely
  
  

How Much Does It Cost to Remove Mold?

Mold removal costs can vary depending on how big the problem is. It may be a few hundred dollars or several thousand.

How to Prevent Mold in Your Home

• Fix leaks quickly
  
  
• Use fans in bathrooms and kitchens
  
  
• Keep indoor humidity low
  
  
• Clean and dry wet areas within 24–48 hours
  
  
• Get regular mold inspections, especially after water damage
  
  

Mold Inspection Services in Long Beach, CA

PureClean Mold Inspection offers reliable, affordable, and professional mold inspection services in Long Beach, CA. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just want peace of mind, our team can help.

• Fast and friendly service
  
  
• Clear, honest reports
  
  
• No scare tactics—just facts and solutions
  
  

FAQs About Mold and Home Inspections

Do Home Inspectors Check for Mold?

Not always. They might see signs of mold but won’t do lab testing. That’s why you may need a professional mold inspection.

Can Mold Affect the Sale of a Home?

Yes, especially if the problem is large. A buyer might ask the seller to fix it or reduce the price.

Is Mold Always a Deal Breaker?

Not always. Small problems can be fixed, but large problems should be carefully considered.

Final Thoughts: Know Before You Buy or Sell

Mold doesn’t have to ruin your home sale or purchase. With a proper mold inspection from PureClean Mold Inspection, you’ll get clear answers and smart solutions. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or homeowner, understanding what to do about mold will help you stay safe and confident.