Mold and Real Estate

One could write a nearly endless list of ideal situations to sell a house under. One situation, however, that would not be on that list is selling a house contaminated with mold. However, there are ways to make selling a mold contaminated home a little bit less difficult.

There should be an environmental inspection clause for a two week to a three week inspection period in any real estate sales contract so that the buy is able to have a professional mold inspector view the property and test it for any mold or any other possible hazards that could take place in or around the home and its respective land. If mold is detected, the only real testing that is necessary is a test that determines whether or not the mold is toxic. If the mold isn’t toxic, you are not out of the red just yet, as the mold can bring the structural endurance of the home into jeopardy. It is important that you have this mold removed as soon as possible, if at all possible. This will help selling in the selling of the home, and makes it easier to either up the price of the home, or decrease the price.

It is also important that you do not make any attempts whatsoever to hide any mold problems that may be in the home, on account of the fact that the potential buyer may back out if they realize that there is indeed a mold infestation. They may also suspect you of being dishonest of other things about the home if you try this method of shady business transactions.

It is important that the potential buyer has in writing that there may be a mold problem, and what measures have or have not been taken at this point to remedy the infestation. All information on possible mold damage should also be disclosed so that it is legally documented that the buyer knew about the problem when the home was purchased. This helps to exemplify you from possible lawsuits. You should also include in the contract that the home is sold as-is and whether or not there is a warranty on the property in relation to the environment.

It is also recommended that you ask for a clause exemplifying you, your real estate agent, and your lender for any and all liability in relation of mold to the buyer of the home. If you have listed the complete information on any past mold and water damage the home has seen and the measures taken to remedy the situation, you will be fine in terms of legality of the sale.


Jim Corkern is a writer and respected contributor to the Water damage restoration and mold remediation Industry. Visit his sites for more information.
http://www.localrestoration.com and
http://www.moldrestorationusa.com