Mold Found at Commercial Properties

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

When a business owner finds mold in their commercial property, they know it's something that can't be ignored. 

There has been quite a bit of attention on mold in businesses. Mold can cause health effects. Mold exists naturally in our environment and is not harmful at regular levels. It's when mold has the opportunity to grow at a rapid rate that it becomes of concern. 

In order to grow, mold requires certain conditions to be met. Mold spores need to be present and have a food source (examples would be cotton, sheetrock, plywood, etc.). In addition, mold requires darkness, oxygen and warm temperatures. However, these are typical conditions in most homes. The factor that most determines whether mold will grow in a commercial property is moisture.  

Some of the most common causes of commercial mold damage are:  

Leaky Pipes:  Whether you own a shopping center with public restrooms or an apartment complex, a slow leak might not be obvious to a homeowner but over time can create an environment that is ideal for mold growth. 

The fix: Periodically check pipes, walls and cabinetry for any signs of leaking.  Ask your tenants to report any signs of moisture such as water spots on the ceiling immediately so that the problem can be remedied before mold grows. 

Basement Mold: Many area businesses have a basement. This might be used for storage in the case of an apartment building. Due to low sunlight, condensation, high humidity, flooding and leaks, the basement is a common location for mold growth. In addition, people spend little time in their basement and are less likely to spot it early on.

The fix: If there is flooding, have your basement waterproofed. Keep humidity levels down with a dehumidifier. Again, your tenants and building maintenance crew are your eyes - ask them to report any signs of moisture or mold immediately. 

If you spot mold in your Torrington area business, give us a call at  203-267-6262. Our mold specialists are IICRC certified and have over 30 years of experience inspecting mold. We know exactly how to mitigate the mold at your commercial property with the least amount of disruption to your business continuity.