Quick Answer
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Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Use your eyes and a good flashlight to look for visible spots, stains, and water damage in all the usual suspect areas.
Step 2
Follow your nose. That musty smell is a dead giveaway, even if you can't see the mold.
Step 3
Hunt for the water source. Check under every sink, around every toilet, and look for signs of leaks from the roof or foundation.
Step 4
Get a cheap moisture meter and check the walls. A high reading tells you there's water hidden inside, which is where mold loves to grow.
Step 5
Assess your ventilation. Are your bathroom fans actually moving air, or just making noise?
Step 6
If you're really stumped or people are getting sick, consider calling a professional inspector, not using a DIY petri dish kit.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Small Mold Spot Removal (<10 sq ft) | $20 - $50 | $500 - $1,500 | 1-3 hours |
Fixing a Minor Leak (P-trap, valve) | $25 - $100 | $200 - $450 | 1-2 hours |
Improving Ventilation (New bath fan) | $100 - $250 | $350 - $600 | 2-4 hours |
When to Call a Professional Handyman
- The mold covers an area larger than 10 square feet (about 3'x3').
- The mold is the result of sewage backup or contaminated flood water. Don't touch that stuff.
- You can smell that strong musty odor but can't find any visible mold.
- Members of your household have severe allergies, asthma, or other respiratory problems.
- You've cleaned an area multiple times, but the mold keeps coming back.
- You're not a plumber and you have no idea where the water is coming from.
Prevention Tips
- Keep your indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. Buy a dehumidifier for your basement and run it.
- Fix any and all water leaks the moment you find them. Don't wait.
- Use your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans every single time you shower or cook with steam.
- Clean and dry up any spills or floods immediately. You have a 48-hour window before things get gross.
- Make sure your gutters are clean and your yard slopes away from your foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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