What to Do If You Suspect Mold in Your Home
Hi, I’m David Lelak with IHI Home Inspections, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned in 19+ years of inspecting homes across Canton, Roswell, Marietta, Alpharetta, and Atlanta, it’s this:
Mold never waits. And it never fixes itself.
If you suspect mold in your home—whether you smell something musty, see black patches in the basement, or start experiencing headaches and allergies—you need to act fast. Mold can impact your health, property value, and wallet.
Common Signs You May Have Mold
Mold is often stealthy, hiding behind walls, under carpets, and in damp basements. Recognizing early warning signs can save you time and money. Here are some key indicators:
1. Musty Smells
That wet-dirt or “old basement” smell? It's often your nose detecting mold before your eyes can. Trust your senses—especially after heavy rain or high humidity.
2. Visible Mold Growth
Mold isn’t always black—it can be green, white, yellow, or even fuzzy. Check corners of bathrooms, under sinks, along window sills, and inside crawl spaces.
3. Water Stains or Damage
Discolored walls, peeling paint, and warped floors are often a sign of ongoing moisture, which creates a perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Health Symptoms Without a Clear Cause
Sudden sneezing, coughing, sinus pressure, itchy eyes, or fatigue? Mold exposure can trigger or worsen allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues.
Where Mold Loves to Hide
Here’s where I typically find mold during inspections across Fulton and Cherokee Counties:
Behind bathroom vanities with hidden leaks
Crawl spaces with poor ventilation
Attics with improper insulation
Basements with cracked foundations or poor drainage
Laundry rooms with dryer exhaust issues
Should You Test for Mold?
You don’t always need testing if the mold is visible. But if it’s hidden or you’re experiencing health issues, professional mold testing is a smart step.
You should test if:
You’re buying/selling a home in Atlanta or Alpharetta
You smell something off but can’t find the source
Your family is experiencing health symptoms
You want peace of mind before remediation or cleanup
At IHI Home Inspections, I offer Indoor Air Quality Testing and mold inspections as part of our 5 Star Protection Package or as add-ons.
Small Mold Problem? Here's What to Do
If the moldy area is less than 10 square feet, you may be able to clean it with:
White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
Soap and water + a scrub brush
Gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask
A dehumidifier to dry the area after cleanup
🚫 DO NOT paint over mold or use bleach (it can actually worsen the problem on porous surfaces).
When to Call in Pros
If you’re in Woodstock, Roswell, or Marietta, and:
The area is larger than 10 sq ft
It keeps coming back
You have a crawl space or attic involved
Your family’s health is affected
...then it's time to bring in a certified inspector like me.
As a licensed home inspector serving Canton to Sandy Springs, I’ll pinpoint the source, document the issue in your report, and provide resources for next steps.
Call an Expert Atlanta Home Inspector Today
If you suspect mold in your home, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem. A trusted Atlanta home inspector can provide a thorough assessment, identify moisture sources, and recommend the best solutions to protect your home and health. Contact a trusted Atlanta home inspection service today to ensure your home remains mold-free and structurally sound.
Serving Mold Concerns Across:
Canton
Alpharetta
Roswell
Marietta
Woodstock
Kennesaw
Decatur
Sandy Springs
Ball Ground
Holly Springs
Cherokee & Fulton County
Schedule Your Inspection with IHI Home Inspections
Don’t ignore that musty smell. Don’t wait until it spreads. Let me help you take care of it before it costs you thousands or risks your family’s health.
📞 Call: 404-788-2581
📅 Schedule Online
📍 Based in Canton, GA | Proudly serving Atlanta & surrounding suburbs
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