In recent years, mold has become a major issue for the real estate industry. Transactions are often affected by the discovery of mold growth by a home inspector. Unfortunately, mold is often a ‘deal breaker’ because the potential buyer perceives the situation to be unfixable. In reality, if mold growth is properly remediated, and the source of moisture is corrected, the mold growth will not return.

ZWS understands that everyone involved with the real estate transaction wants it to be a success. The seller wants to sell the house, the buyer wants to buy the house, and the real estate agent wants to make the sale. Therefore, ZWS attempts to find a common ground in which the potential mold problem is properly corrected in a cost effective manner.

It is important to hire an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) who does not have extremist views on mold. This would include IEPs that work for companies that also perform mold remediation. An extremist view during a real estate transaction will undoubtedly end poorly for everyone involved.

Beware of the Home Inspector turned Mold Inspector

Many home inspectors now perform mold inspections, and testing, with very little knowledge of the field. Most started performing these services because they commonly found mold growth during home inspections, and saw an opportunity to make money.

Often times, a home inspector will only provide you with the laboratory results of the mold testing, but offer very little expertise in translating the results or in providing recommended remediation steps. At that point, you may be forced to hire a qualified IEP (at an additional cost) to provide you the needed information. If substantial mold is found, hire a professional who specializes in that area. Cut out the middleman.

Training

ZWS can provide training for your real estate agents.

Corporate Training Information