A real estate deal gone bad has resulted in a protracted legal battle for an unfortunate couple. At the heart of the dispute was a wet basement and mold.
The couple bought an upscale property in Saskatoon a few years ago. During the sales process, they received a “Property Condition Disclosure Statement” or PCDS (in Ontario, it’s known as a Seller Property Information Statement or SPIS). The PCDS included the question “Are you aware of any roof leaks or moisture or water problems or unrepaired water damage in the dwellings …?” and the sellers answered “No”, only indicating minimal flooding on one single occasion.
However, when the couple moved into the house in 2007, a carpet cleaner discovered water underneath the carpets in the basement and moisture, mold and that telltale moldy smell elsewhere in the basement, including the walls.
The couple had to move out of the property until it was remediated and initiated court proceedings against both the sellers and the listing agent.
Basements & Mold
Basements are one of the key areas where mold can begin to grow undetected.
- Leaks can occur in the foundation, walls or concrete flooring
- Carpets will sop up the water and actually ensure that moisture doesn’t dry up properly, providing the perfect conditions for mold to flourish
- Poor ventilation in basements and crawl spaces also often contribute to lingering moisture and mold issues
Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. If you or a member of your family experiences flu-like and respiratory symptoms you can’t explain, you should seek help in determining whether mold is the cause right away.
Let Us Help
Mold exposure is an acknowledged threat to your well-being and you may not know that mold even exists in your home until it affects your health. If you suspect any leaks or lingering moisture in your home, or if you’re experiencing flu-like or respiratory symptoms you can’t explain, give yourself peace of mind.
For Mold Inspection & Testing Services in Toronto, call us for a hassle-free quote today.
MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free 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 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.