Mold growth in a commercial property can have serious consequences, ranging from health issues to structural damage and even financial losses. Whether you’re a property manager, business owner, or facility manager, discovering mold in your commercial space can be alarming. However, knowing the right steps to take can help mitigate the damage and ensure a safe, mold-free environment for employees, tenants, or customers.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if you find mold in your commercial property and the steps to prevent its recurrence.

1. Don’t Panic, but Act Quickly

Finding mold in your commercial property doesn’t have to spell disaster, but it’s important to act quickly. Mold can spread rapidly when given the right conditions, and the longer it’s left untreated, the more damage it can cause. Start by staying calm and following these key steps to address the issue.

2. Identify the Source of Moisture

Mold needs moisture to grow, so the first step in solving the problem is identifying the source of the moisture. Without addressing the underlying moisture issue, mold will continue to thrive and return. Common sources of moisture in commercial properties include:

• Leaky roofs or windows
• Plumbing issues (e.g., leaking pipes, toilets, sinks)
• Condensation from HVAC systems or poor ventilation
• Flooding or water damage from a recent storm or burst pipes

Once you locate the source of the moisture, make sure to repair it immediately to prevent further mold growth.

3. Isolate the Affected Area

If mold is found, it’s crucial to limit exposure to the affected area. Mold spores can easily spread through the air, and once they’re disturbed, they can contaminate other areas of the building. To protect employees, tenants, or customers, take these steps:

• Seal off the area: Use plastic sheeting and tape to seal the affected space and prevent mold spores from spreading.
• Close doors and windows: Ensure that the room is closed off and well-ventilated to limit further contamination.
• Turn off HVAC systems: HVAC systems can circulate mold spores throughout the building, so it’s important to turn them off and avoid using them until the mold issue is resolved.

4. Assess the Mold Damage

Next, assess the extent of the mold damage. Small areas of mold growth may only affect surface materials, such as walls or ceilings. However, larger infestations could be a sign of deeper issues, such as mold behind walls, under flooring, or in HVAC systems.

• For small infestations: You may be able to handle the cleanup yourself with proper mold removal products and safety precautions.
• For larger infestations: It’s best to call a professional mold remediation company to ensure the problem is properly addressed.

5. Consider the Health Impacts

Mold in commercial properties can pose health risks to your employees, tenants, and visitors, especially those with allergies, asthma, or respiratory conditions. Inhaling mold spores can lead to symptoms such as:

• Respiratory issues (e.g., coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing)
• Skin rashes or irritation
• Sinus congestion
• Headaches
• Eye irritation

If you suspect that mold has affected the health of individuals in the building, it’s important to get a professional mold inspection as soon as possible and take action to remove the mold.

6. Hire a Certified Mold Remediation Specialist

Mold remediation is a complex process that requires specific knowledge, tools, and safety precautions. In many cases, hiring a certified mold remediation professional is the best option to ensure that the issue is properly addressed.

A certified mold remediation specialist will:

• Conduct a thorough mold inspection to assess the extent of the contamination
• Use specialized equipment, such as air scrubbers and dehumidifiers, to remove mold spores from the air
• Safely remove mold from surfaces and structures using proven techniques
• Ensure that the area is properly disinfected and restored
• Advise on how to prevent future mold growth

Hiring a professional ensures that the job is done correctly and safely, protecting the health of those in the building and preventing further damage.

7. Document the Damage and Contact Your Insurance Provider

Mold damage may be covered by insurance, depending on the cause and your policy. To start the claims process, document the damage by taking photos and writing down details of the mold issue. You should also keep records of the repairs and mold remediation process.

Contact your insurance provider to inquire about coverage and begin the claims process. If the mold growth was caused by a water event (e.g., a burst pipe or flooding), it’s important to report the issue promptly to minimize damage.

8. Clean Up and Repair Damaged Materials

After mold has been removed, it’s time to clean and repair the damaged areas. Depending on the severity of the damage, this may involve:

• Replacing drywall, flooring, or insulation that was heavily affected by mold
• Cleaning and sanitizing HVAC systems to ensure that no mold spores remain
• Painting surfaces with mold-resistant paint to prevent future growth
• Installing dehumidifiers in areas prone to excess moisture

Take proactive steps to restore the property to its pre-mold condition and ensure the environment is safe for all occupants.

9. Implement Mold Prevention Measures

Once the mold has been removed and repairs are made, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent future mold growth. Here are some effective mold prevention measures for your commercial property:

• Control humidity levels: Use dehumidifiers or ensure your HVAC system is properly maintained to keep indoor humidity levels below 60%.
• Improve ventilation: Ensure that areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, have proper ventilation. This may include installing exhaust fans or upgrading your HVAC system.
• Inspect and maintain the roof and plumbing: Regularly inspect your roof, pipes, and HVAC system to catch leaks or issues early before they become mold problems.
• Use mold-resistant materials: If you’re remodeling or making repairs, consider using mold-resistant materials such as drywall, paint, and caulk.

10. Conduct Regular Mold Inspections

Finally, the best way to prevent mold in your commercial property is by conducting regular mold inspections. Regular inspections allow you to catch mold growth early before it spreads or becomes a serious problem. Consider scheduling a professional mold inspection at least once a year, or more frequently if your property is in a high-humidity area or has a history of water issues.

Finding mold in your commercial property can be a serious concern, but with prompt action, the issue can be handled effectively. By identifying the source of moisture, containing the affected area, and hiring professional help when necessary, you can keep your building mold-free and protect the health of your occupants. Regular inspections and proactive prevention measures will help ensure that mold doesn’t become a recurring problem.

If you’ve found mold in your commercial property, Mold Busters® is here to help. Contact us for a professional mold inspection, remediation, and prevention plan tailored to your business.