Mold and Moisture Control in Commercial Buildings: A Vital Imperative

7/18/2024 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings, bustling with activity and occupancy, are susceptible to mold growth due to various factors such as poor ventilation, moisture intrusion, and high humidity levels. Mold can cause risk to occupants but also can lead to structural damage and financial losses for businesses. As such, mold and moisture control in commercial buildings is a vital imperative for maintaining a safe and productive indoor environment. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of mold and moisture control in commercial buildings and discuss strategies for effective prevention and remediation.

Understanding the Risks of Mold in Commercial Buildings

Mold thrives in environments with moisture and organic materials, making commercial buildings susceptible to contamination, especially in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and storage areas. Mold growth not only compromises indoor air quality but can cause risks to occupants if not addressed properly. Additionally, mold infestations can lead to property damage, staining, odors, and potential liability issues for businesses.

Importance of Moisture Control

Moisture control is critical for preventing mold growth and maintaining a healthy indoor environment in commercial buildings. Effective moisture control measures help reduce humidity levels, prevent water intrusion, and mitigate the risk of mold contamination. Some key strategies for moisture control in commercial buildings include:

1. Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in areas prone to moisture accumulation, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Install exhaust fans, ventilation systems, and air conditioning units to remove excess moisture from indoor spaces and improve airflow.
2. Regular Maintenance: Implement routine maintenance practices to identify and address potential sources of moisture, such as leaking pipes, roof leaks, condensation issues, and plumbing failures. Promptly repair water leaks and address drainage problems to prevent water intrusion and moisture buildup.
3. Humidity Monitoring: Monitor indoor humidity levels regularly using hygrometers or humidity sensors. Maintain indoor humidity levels below 60% to inhibit mold growth and create an inhospitable environment for mold spores.
4. Waterproofing: Implement waterproofing measures in areas susceptible to water intrusion, such as basements, crawl spaces, and foundation walls. Seal cracks, gaps, and openings to prevent water infiltration and moisture penetration into building structures.

Mold Prevention Strategies

In addition to moisture control, proactive mold prevention strategies are essential for safeguarding commercial buildings against mold contamination. Some effective mold prevention measures include:

1. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of commercial buildings to identify signs of moisture damage, water leaks, and mold growth. Inspect building components such as roofs, windows, doors, walls, and HVAC systems for signs of water intrusion and mold contamination.
2. Prompt Remediation: Address water damage and moisture issues promptly to prevent mold growth. Implement swift mitigation and remediation efforts to remove excess water, dry affected areas, and prevent mold proliferation.
3. Educating Occupants: Educate building occupants about the importance of moisture control, mold prevention, and proper maintenance practices. Encourage occupants to report any signs of water damage, leaks, or mold growth promptly to facility management for timely intervention.
4. Professional Assistance: Engage certified mold remediation specialists to conduct comprehensive mold inspections, remediate contamination, and implement preventive measures. Professional expertise and resources are essential for ensuring thorough mold prevention and remediation efforts in commercial buildings.

Mold and moisture control in commercial buildings is essential for maintaining a safe, healthy, and productive indoor environment for occupants and protecting the integrity of building structures. With a comprehensive approach to mold and moisture control, commercial building owners and facility managers can safeguard their investment and uphold the reputation and credibility of their businesses. Trust the experienced services, trust SERVPRO of Woodland Hills for your mold remediation services.

Mold in Rental Properties: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

3/13/2024 (Permalink)

As a trusted provider of restoration and cleaning services, we understand that mold can be a pesky issue in rental properties. Today, we're diving into the responsibilities of both tenants and landlords when it comes to mold in rental spaces. Let's get into the nitty-gritty and help you navigate this common challenge.

Identifying Mold

First things first – mold is not a welcome houseguest. It thrives in damp and humid environments, making rental properties susceptible to its growth. As a tenant, keep an eye out for any signs of mold, such as musty odors, discolored patches on walls or ceilings, and signs even water damage.

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants play a crucial role in preventing and addressing mold issues. Regularly inspect your living space for leaks and moisture, promptly reporting any concerns to your landlord. Keep the property well-ventilated to reduce humidity, and if you spot any mold, refrain from trying to tackle it yourself – report it immediately.

Landlord Responsibilities

Landlords, this one's for you! Ensuring your rental property is mold-free is not only beneficial for your tenants' well-being but also safeguards the structural integrity of your investment. Conduct routine inspections to identify and address any potential sources of moisture. Promptly respond to tenant reports of mold, and hire professionals like SERVPRO® to conduct thorough mold remediation if needed.

Communication is Key

Open communication between tenants and landlords is vital in managing mold concerns. Tenants, don't hesitate to notify your landlord at the first sign of mold, and landlords, be proactive in addressing these reports promptly. Together, you can create a living environment that's mold neutral.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is the best cure, right? Encourage tenants to use exhaust fans, address leaks immediately, and maintain proper ventilation. Landlords, consider investing in dehumidifiers for properties in humid climates, and educate your tenants about mold prevention best practices.

Mold in rental properties is a shared responsibility, and effective communication is key to resolving the issue. By staying vigilant, promptly addressing concerns, and taking preventive measures, tenants and landlords can create an ideal living environment for everyone. If mold becomes a persistent problem, don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO for professional assistance. We're here to help you keep your rental property mold-free and thriving!

You've Got Mold?

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Call now for a free inspection! 818-882-4556

Moisture is the biggest factor in mold growth. To fight mold infestation in your Woodland Hills, CA home or business, conduct an assessment to identify problem areas. Moisture can come from poor ventilation, water leaks, or from outdoor intrusion e.g. foundations or walls.

Mold and mildew are not easy to detect if it exists in your attic, crawl space, or is inside walls. If you suspect hidden mold in your home or business, you can conduct a visual inspection to detect a problem. But if you don't find any actual spores it does not mean that you don't have a problem especially if there is an odor.

You should consider consulting a professional indoor air quality inspector or a professional remediation service such as SERVPRO of Woodland Hills if you believe there is mold inside your home or office. SERVPRO provides free initial inspections and helps you determine if you need mold remediation or just a good cleaning.  We do both!  

Is Mold Covered by Homeowner's Insurance?

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Woodland Hills at 818-882-4556 for all of your mold remediation needs!

Home insurance policies usually don't cover mold that resulted from a preventable water leak, flooding, or high humidity.

Home insurance companies also typically don't pay for maintenance issues that insurers think a homeowner should have prevented. Insurers expect homeowners to proactively take care of those problems before they need to file an insurance claim.

Home insurance covers mold if a "covered peril" caused the mold. In that case, your home insurance policy will likely pay for repairs and clean-up.

Here are some of home insurance's covered perils:

• Fire
• Lightning
• Vandalism or malicious mischief
• Damage caused by vehicles
• Theft
• Falling objects
• Weight of ice, snow, or sleet
• Accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam from plumbing, heating, air conditioners, sprinkler systems, or household appliances
• Frozen pipes

Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if there is any language about mold claims. Some insurers offer limited coverage for mold claims. This may mean limiting how much the insurer will pay for a mold-related claim. Or an insurer may increase the cost of a home insurance policy if you have mold-related coverage.

If you don't have mold coverage, you can buy an endorsement to your insurance policy that adds mold coverage. An endorsement is when an insurance company adds additional coverage to a regular home insurance policy, for an additional fee.

Defending Your Property Against Mold Growth

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Don't wait for mold to set in. Call SERVPRO now. 818-882-4556

What you can do:

- Try to keep humidity between 30 and 60%.

- Have proper drainage leading away from buildings and foundations.

- Inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks often.

- Keep gutters and drains clear of leaves and debris.

- Inspect your roof, windows, and areas that water might enter, and perform necessary maintenance on your building.

-Respond to all water intrusions immediately. Do not wait!

-Contact SERVPRO  for assistance after water damage or if you discover mold, moisture or damp or musky odors.

SERVPRO of Woodland Hills proudly serves our community and specializes in fire, smoke, mold, water and biohazard damage to both commercial business and residential properties. We are capable of handling any size disaster and work with all types of insurance providers.

SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  For more information call 818-882-4556

Got Mold?

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can be hiding anywhere. Trust SERVPRO of Woodland Hills to make it "Like it never even happened." 818-882-4556

 SERVPRO of Woodland Hills can help get you through this.

How did it get here?

Molds grow by digesting and destroying the material they grow on. They can be found almost anywhere and can grow on just about any material as long as conditions are favorable.  Mold needs oxygen, moisture, and a material to grow on. Molds reproduce by making spores. These spores become airborne. If spores land on suitable material and conditions are favorable, the mold will begin to grow.

Even though molds are everywhere, they may become a problem when they begin to grow indoors. Many building materials such as drywall, ceiling tiles and wood framing contain cellulose, which is a material on which molds can grow. As molds grow on building materials they may become destructive. Molds may grow unnoticed, above ceilings, behind walls, in attics and basements or in crawl spaces. Molds can cause staining of walls and ceilings and can begin to break down the studs and joists of buildings causing extensive property damage.

Excessive moisture is a key ingredient which causes molds to grow. Sources of excess moisture may be plumbing leaks, leaking roofs or windows, high humidity, flooding, or condensation inside walls due to poor insulation.

SERVPRO of Woodland Hills has 24 years of Mold Remediation experience and knows exactly how to help get mold under control.

How you know to trust SERVPRO with your mold problem

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

Got Mold? Call today 818-882-4556

Why Choose SERVPRO of Woodland Hills for Mold Remediation

• We are a well trained and respected mold restoration company
• SERVPRO of Woodland Hills is IICRC certified
• We provide a copy of your contract in case a problem occurs and we stand by our work.
• SERVPRO knows what insurance companies require you to do following a mold loss.
• If there are insurance coverage questions, we ask your claims adjuster for answers in writing to ensure all parties are on the same page
• 1-4-8-Response time. this is is crucial to preventing further mold damage. Any delay can lead to a much more costly recovery.
• We begin repairs to your property promptly
• 23 years of family owned and operated business helps to ensure customer satisfaction!

Mold in Woodland hills Home or Business? We've got you!

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Don't wait for water damage to turn to mold. Call SERVPRO 818-882-4556

Mold can spread through a home or business in as little as 48 hours after being exposed to water.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call SERVPRO of Woodland Hills Today – 818-882-4556 

If You Have Mold Call SERVPRO Today

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here 24/7/365 818-882-4556

Mold Removal - SERVPRO of Woodland Hills

Mold spores spread so quickly that professional removal is necessary. Mold sets in in as little as 24 hours. Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Woodland Hills fully remediate your home from mold damage. Our experts take the necessary precautions to keep you and your family safe and ensure the problem won’t return.

 Regardless of the type, all mold should be removed. The EPA recommends that homeowners call a professional if the mold in their home covers more than 10 square feet. When it comes to black mold, however, even a small amount is enough to have removed! 

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Woodland Hills if you have had a water incident or suspect that you have mold. 818-882-4556

Mold Mitigation & Restoration Process

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Woodland Hills, CA Mold remediation.

SERVPRO's Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the “typical” process:

Step 1 : Emergency Service. Contact SERVPRO of Woodland Hills @ 818-882-4556.

Step 2 : Inspection and Mold Damage Assessments.

Step 3: Mold Containment.

Step 4: Air Filtration.

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold infested Materials.

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings 

Step 7: Restoration

DYK?

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or on a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. 
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return. 
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Call SERVPRO 24/7/365 @  818-882-4556

Does Your Woodland Hills Home or Business Have A Mold Problem?

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

In Woodland Hills, mold can spread through a home or business in as little as 48 hours. Call SERVPRO of Woodland Hills today for a free inspection. 81

SERVPRO of Woodland Hills has 24 years of experience in water damage and mold remediation.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 818-882-4556 

24 Hour Emergency Services
Fire-Water-Mold-cleaning-Biohazard

GOT MOLD? SERVPRO of Woodland Hills can help 27/7.

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

Don't wait. Contact SERVPRO of Woodland Hills SERVPROwoodlandhills.com 818-882-4556 Anytime!

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Woodland Hills SERVPROwoodlandhills.com 818-882-4556

Does Your Woodland Hills property have Mold?

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 818-882-4556 or 818-881-3636

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 818-882-4556 or 818-881-3636

Understanding Mold in Woodland Hills, CA

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 818-882-4556

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or on a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. 
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return. 
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the “typical” process:

Step 1 : Emergency Service contact SERVPRO near you.

Step 2 : Inspection and Mold Damage Assessments.

Step 3: Mold Containment.

Step 4: Air Filtration.

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold infested Materials.

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings 

Step 7: Restoration

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 818-882-4556 

Does Your Woodland Hills, Tarzana, or Reseda Home Have A Mold Problem?

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

In Woodland Hills, Tarzana, or Reseda, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 818-882-4556 or 818-881-3636

Understand Mold

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

Understanding Mold

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or on a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. 
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return. 
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the “typical” process:

Step 1 : Emergency Service contact SERVPRO near you.

Step 2 : Inspection and Mold Damage Assessments.

Step 3: Mold Containment.

Step 4: Air Filtration.

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold infested Materials.

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings 

Step 7: Restoration