Don't Buy A Pre-Owned Home Without First
Checking and Testing For Mold Contamination
If you decide to purchase a pre-owned home, make sure your
purchase contract gives you the right to inspect and test for environmental problems such
as mold contamination. Ask your lawyer to draft a protective environmental clause that
you can insert into any real estate purchase contract. Here is a sample wording you and
your attorney can adapt to your use:
"Buyer
shall have the right to inspect and test the subject property for ___ days [the more time
the better, because laboratory results for mold testing can take at least 7 to 14 days]
as to its physical condition including, but not limited to, inspection and testing for
mold contamination and other environmental hazards. Should the Buyer be displeased with
the physical condition of the property, Buyer may, in Buyer's sole discretion, terminate
this contract with a full and immediate refund of any earnest money paid. Seller shall
provide full access to the property for inspection and testing to both the Buyer and to
any home inspection, mold inspection, and environmental inspection service company and
their inspection and testing personnel."
To locate a
Certified Mold Inspector
in your area, our
Inspector Directory page will help you find
one.
|
Penicillium
and Aspergillus molds
growing in and on drywall in apartment bathroom in Corona,
California.
Photo by Phil Fry. |
Water & mold damaged exterior siding
(typical low quality siding used by many homebuilders) of home in Chino Hills,
California.
Photo by Phil Fry. |
|
