Don’t Let Mold Dampen Your Vacation Rental Business

No property owner wants to hear the dreaded words that they have mold. Unfortunately, around 70% of homes have mold, according to Wilson Web Physics. Though it seems like most molds grow outdoors, they can travel indoors by way of open windows and doors, air conditioning systems, animals, clothing and shoes. Once inside your rental property, mold needs a moist food source, such as lint, ceiling tiles or wallpaper to grow on. It finds its new home easier than one would think and moves quickly.

Mold not only damages your property, but it can also cause serious health complications after long-term exposure. Not to mention, mold can slow your business down and even result in lawsuits. Use these prevention tips to keep mold out of your vacation rental.

What Are the Signs of Mold?

It can be difficult to spot the early signs of mold in your rental property before it spreads and becomes too late. Many times, we see the effects of mold on people rather than the house because it can be hidden in certain areas. The most common signs of mold inside the property include:

• A musty odor 
• Extremely damp areas
• Stains or discoloration on the walls and ceiling 
• Peeling wallpaper
• Rotting wood

Mold Prevention

Minimizing the cost of mold damage starts with prevention. As a primary factor in mold development, controlling moisture is essential. Address moisture problems in their early stages to eliminate the potential for mold growth.

• Clean up any water damage or flooding thoroughly and immediately.
• Use a dehumidifier and a wet/dry vacuum to remove water quickly.
• Remove carpeting that cannot be dried out within 48 hours. If your carpet was contaminated by sewer water or a flood, it needs to be replaced.
• If the property has a basement, repair the cracks so moisture cannot seep in.
• Keep air conditioning, heating system and dehumidifier drip pans empty, flowing properly and unobstructed.
• Use a dehumidifier and/or air conditioner to reduce indoor moisture, especially during humid months of the year. Empty the drip pans in your air conditioner, refrigerator and dehumidifier regularly to prevent water buildup.

Have a Remediation Plan

If a water intrusion is discovered, an immediate response is necessary to prevent mold from developing further. As a general rule, a mold remediation plan should be underway within the first 24 to 48 hours.

If mold has already begun to grow by the time a water intrusion is discovered, it must be addressed quickly. Waiting to start remediation can allow for mold growth to increase, threatening health and causing additional property damage.

In cases when particular toxic forms of mold have been identified or are suspected, when chances that mold may be airborne are high or when mold growth may extend inside walls or HVAC systems, an experienced mold specialist should be contacted.

Moisture Control Is Key

While it’s impossible to eliminate all molds and spores from the air, it is possible to control indoor moisture and therefore curb mold growth at your vacation rental property. Be sure to pinpoint areas where leaks have occurred in the past and identify the cause of those leaks. In doing so, you can help eliminate problem areas within the property and minimize the likelihood of mold appearing.

The Complications of Mold Exposure

A mold problem can cause serious health effects — especially for children, the elderly, those who suffer from allergies or asthma, and those with existing respiratory conditions. Symptoms of mold sensitivity include eye irritation, nasal stuffiness, shortness of breath and wheezing.

Mold and mildew are sneaky residents and can be difficult to catch before guests do. As an owner, you never want anything at your property to affect the health of your renters. Properly cleaning after each stay and looking for the signs of mold and mildew consistently will save you from having to deal with costly lawsuits and potential medical bills.

Break the Mold with CBIZ Vacation Rental Insurance

While mold is excluded from all insurance policies, you can safeguard your properties from the unexpected and leave nothing to chance with CBIZ Vacation Rental Insurance. Even though mold can be prevented, many other things are not so easily identifiable. Learn more about protecting your rental business with CBIZ; request a free quote today!

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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