When you are buying...

Mold: A checklist for homebuyers and sellers.

Mold may be a concern for homebuyers and sellers, real estate brokers, inspectors, appraisers, and mortgage lenders. You can learn more about mold at www.texasrealestate.com/mold and from the Texas Department of Insurance Mold Resource Page (www.tdi.state.tx.us/commish/mold.html)

Here are a few other items you should keep in mind:

• Real estate agents and brokers are not experts on mold. IF you need more information on this subject, you should explore the online resources above or contact an expert.
• Insurability may be an issuer. Buyers should discuss the insurability of a property with their insurance agent early in the transaction or in some cases, before an offer is made.
• Be aware that there are presently no licensing or inspection standards for mold in properties. If you decide to seek a professional opinion, you may want to discuss mold inspections with more than one expert. Most experts will discuss the limitations of the inspections. For example, an air-sampling test that does not reveal extraordinary levels of toxic mold does not necessarily mean that mold is not present behind walls or under floors where the air samplers were not placed.
• The last two questions in item five of the Texas Association of REALTORS® is used, items for disclosing this information may be located elsewhere on the form.
• Most experts suggest property owners undertake preventive action, such as periodic cleaning of a/c systems, regular reviews of attic spaces, and periodic plumbing leak tests. The online sources listed above have helpful suggestions.

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