Mold and mildew are frequently confused due to their similar appearance and love for damp spaces, but they are not the same. It’s essential for you and your tenants to understand the differences to protect your Benton Bryant rental properties from damage and health risks. By learning to identify both mildew and toxic mold, you can stop a small problem from turning into a major headache.
There are many different kinds of mold and mildew, most of which aren’t considered harmful. However, tenants may not be familiar with mold or mildew or how to properly deal with it. Mildew, for example, is a surface fungus that looks gray or white and grows flat and powdery. It tends to collect in damp areas like bathrooms, and while it can smell bad if left untreated, it is usually easy to clean with bleach and a brush.
Identifying and Addressing Toxic Mold in Rental Properties
Mold can be more invasive and challenging to remove. Mold often grows inside walls and ceilings where there is high humidity or water damage, making it hard to detect. The first clue is usually a persistent musty odor. Mold may also appear in various colors, like black, green, or red, and it can have a fuzzy or slimy texture.
One particularly toxic mold is Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra), a greenish-black mold that thrives on materials like fiberboard and paper. It requires constant moisture to grow, often appearing after flooding or water damage.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) notes that some people may experience physical symptoms after exposure to this strain of mold, including respiratory problems, headaches, dizziness, skin rashes, infections, and even asthma.
Preventing Mold Growth Through Regular Maintenance and Tenant Education
Once mold has taken hold, removing it can be both difficult and expensive. Bleach may work for hard surfaces, but soft materials like carpets and wallboards may need to be replaced. Early detection is crucial to avoid costly repairs.
Tenants are your best line of defense in preventing mold. Educating them about mildew and mold prevention is key. But mold can be tricky to spot, which is why regular inspections for water damage or mold should be part of every rental home’s routine maintenance. If leaks, condensation, or other signs of moisture are found, they should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent mold from developing.
If mold is found in your property, it usually means there’s a moisture issue that needs to be addressed. Simply cleaning the mold won’t fix the problem if the conditions that caused it are still present.
By working with Real Property Management Hometown, you gain access to our professional services, including regular inspections and evaluations that catch potential mold issues early. Our team is here to keep your Benton Bryant rental properties free from mold and mildew. Contact us online or call 501-701-4702 or 501-303-6870 to learn more about our services.
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