If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, you know that condos are all the rage. It seems like a new complex pops up every day. Well, the same is true for major cities across Canada.
While many of us know to be suspicious when renting or purchasing older homes, we sometimes let our guard down for new places. Former grow-ops and/or toxic mold are fairly common in older buildings and we often think to bring in mold inspection teams before making decisions. But too many Canadians assume that new buildings are immune to moisture, water damage and mold.
A recent CBS study used the Bella Vista Condominiums in Calgary as a prime example of the “new home invincibility” trap. After purchasing Bella Vista units, new condo owners discovered damage to the roof, eaves, balcony and parkade. They have to pay anywhere between $77,000 and $189,000 each to repair the moist, damaged areas, which foster the growth of toxic mold. The catch: the building was only nine years old.
Prospective homeowners can follow a few different tips to ensure they aren’t saddled with damaged housing and toxic mold upon moving to a new condo. The first is to hire a mold inspection company to check not only for mold, but for damage or moist conditions that could soon foster mold growth.
The second option, as suggested in the CBC study: talk to existing owners. Maybe the person selling you a particular condo won’t be honest about the conditions – but his or her neighbours might be. See if you can get some information about the conditions – especially the “envelope” of homes, which includes roofs and siding.
Our recommendation: do both. When you’re making a major life decision like buying a home, you can never be too careful or diligent with things like mold testing.
MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free buildings, condominiums, homes and breathable indoor air spaces in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and beyond. Providing certified mold inspection, detection and testing since 2005, we service home owners, real-estate agents, landlords, property managers, insurance companies and businesses. Featured on CTV and Global TV and recommended by contractors, we regularly serve as expert witnesses in court proceeding relating to Mold and Indoor Air Quality issues. Do you have mold? Call us today for a free quote at (416) 575-6111.