Stopping Mold Growth

Given that mold can start to grow in as little as 48 hours, it’s important to take prompt action after a water loss to help prevent mold from growing and spreading.  By identifying and eliminating the water problem, and then implementing rapid drying proccesses, mold growth can be curtailed so that your policyholders do not experience more than just water damage in their homes.

If we observe mold during a water loss, we will respond appropriately to the issue and will immediately report our observations to your company.  When the mold contamination is isolated and/or less than 10 square feet, expensive testing and protocols are generally not required.

With agreement from your adjusters, our ServiceMaster Restore^® technicians will proceeed with the claim and perform emeregency water mitigation services, including remediation of the 10 square feet or less of mold.  To deal with the mold issue, our team will use a three-step mold remediation process:

• Locate the source of contamination by using moisture meters, thermal imaging and other specialized equipment.
• Dry the affected area to ensure the water source is removed
• Isolate the contaminated area and remove the mold while protecting the surrounding areas from the possible spread of mold spores.

If we encounter an affected area of more than 10 square feet, we will contain the contaminated area, stop normal water mitigation procedures and immediately notify your company. In these cases, we strongly recommend the use of an envrionmental testing service to establish baseline levels of mold, identify the types of mold present and dvelop a written remediation plan. Our goal is to establish the proper procedures to handle the mold situation.

We work with nationally recognized testing facilites and can provide mold inspection, labratory analysis and remediation plans at a resonable price.

Sources:  servicemaster.com, cdc.gov

Mold 101

Mold is a fungus that can grow almost anywhere, indoors or outdoors. The approximately 100,000 species of mold that exist all share the same basic characteristics: the need for oxygen, moisture and nutrients to grow. Indoor wood, wallboard, wallpaper, upholstery and dust can be excellent nutrient sources.

Although mold can grow in most environments, it grows best in damp, warm conditions. Molds spread and reproduce by making spores, which are small and lightweight; able to travel through air; can resist dry, adverse environmental conditions and are capable of surviving a long time.

Individuals are exposed to mold through skin contact, inhalation or ingestion, which may cause mild to severe allergic reactions, depending on an individual’s sensitivity. Working or living in moldy conditions can be dangerous. Not only does it present health dangers, but left unattended it will continuously grow and can damage and destroy whatever material it has inhabited.

Source: cdc.gov

Emergency? Call (419)841-5575 or press the button below to start your claim.