The third largest insurance claim generator is mold contamination. Mold contamination is commonly found in buildings that have had moisture intrusions. Several mold species in moist environments can produce a wide variety of harmful chemical compounds.

Most home buyers assume that a newly constructed house will be free of defects, particularly those that may become health hazards and this is primarily true for lead, asbestos, for example. Older homes may suffer from mold problems, but certainly not new ones….is what so many people believe today. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Mold contamination in new homes is an all too frequent problem because of new building materials that are more easily affected by moisture leading to mold growth. Design flaws (lack of proper ventilation, poor or no drainage on the exterior of the house, etc.) and poor workmanship have also been contributing to mold growth in new homes.

There are many potential sources of mold in new homes such as:

Moldy building materials obtained from contractor’s supplier or storage of building materials outside without protective covering allowing exposure to moisture from rain, humidity, etc. that promotes mold growth.

Improper or inadequate ventilation and/or drainage/flashings allowing for moisture build up and mold growth.

The use of chip board, drywall and plywood which are prime food sources for molds.

Even if the contractor takes cares to minimize the mold sources listed above, the chances are good that some mold will be present on the building materials. Keeping moisture out of an open building site is difficult and therefore, during construction and upon completion of the building, the site should be inspected and tested for mold growth by an independent professional. A moisture meter can easily find moisture in building materials which will then need to be removed. The source of moisture intrusion must be identified before new materials are installed. Finding the moisture and mold prior to completion of the home can only benefit all parties, especially the builders and home buyers. Remember that mold is alive and if a small, isolated mold problem is left it can grow into something larger that will be expensive to fix.