Is Mold becoming a growing concern for Florida Property Management Companies?

Over the past couple of decades, mold issues have become a widespread problem and a growing concern for Florida property management companies.  The existence of mold can lead to serious health problems for rental property occupants and result in costly, extensive repairs.  As a property manager, it’s imperative that you avoid these types of problems by having mold inspections on a regularly scheduled basis.

Mold and Health Concerns

Mold is a fungus that thrives in damp, humid environments and releases airborne spores which we unknowingly inhale while moving around in our homes.  It can lead to a variety of health problems including allergies, headaches, and respiratory issues.  In the more severe cases, it can even lead to serious neurological problems.  People with allergies, asthma or other existing health conditions are exceptionally vulnerable to mold-related health problems.  Children, seniors, and pets are also at an elevated risk.

Dealing with Mold promptly is crucial

Once it takes hold in your home, mold can be a complicated problem.  The longer it’s allowed to grow and spread the more costly and difficult it is to remediate.  Mold can also damage the property as well as your health, including structural damage.  It can even result in a total property loss.  In addition to health issues, it can be expensive to remove and lead to decreased property value, increased insurance premiums, and a loss of revenues with commercial properties. The cost of the mold inspection is much less than what you’d be paying for mold removal and repairs.

What is the Role of Property Management Companies?

As property managers, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the property is habitable, healthy, and safe for your tenants.  A quality professional mold inspection will enable you to identify existing problems before they’re able to become significant health risks or lead to expensive repairs.  Here are 5 of the best practices that property management companies should follow when dealing with mold problems in their rental properties:

• Have the property regularly inspected for mold – this is essential to detect any potential problems early.
• Perform regular maintenance – addressing any dampness issues and fixing leaks will prevent mold growth.
• Proper documentation is critical – it’s important to document all inspections, removal, and repairs that are mold-related.
• Rely on professional remediation specialists – only professionals should be called in to remove mold; property managers shouldn’t attempt this themselves.
• Respond to your tenant’s complaints – take your tenant’s complaints seriously, whether it’s about a mold problem or anything else that’s concerning to them.

To ensure having a quality mold inspection performed, contact Florida Inspections Unlimited today at 305-910-1171. We have been doing this for over a decade and have a licensed and qualified team of mold inspectors available to help you.