What to do if homeowners cry “Mold!”

When homeowners discover mold in a property following a contractor’s work, it can lead to significant concerns and potential disputes. It’s important for contractors to handle such situations with caution and professionalism to protect their business, safeguard their risk of incurring liability and maintain their reputation.

Upon receiving a complaint about mold, contractors should respond quickly. Delay can exacerbate the problem and may imply negligence or disinterest. A prompt response demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to resolving the issue.

Inspections, assessments and responses

If you are a contractor who is facing allegations that your work is riddled with mold, arrange a visit to the property to inspect the reported mold issue. It is advisable to bring along a qualified mold assessment consultant who can provide an expert evaluation of the mold’s extent and potential causes. This step not only helps in understanding the severity of the problem but also in documenting the situation, which is going to be important if the dispute escalates.

You should also review your contract and the scope of the work completed to determine their responsibilities concerning the current issue. Understanding whether the mold could be related to your work or if it is due to other factors (like homeowner neglect or external conditions not related to the contractor’s work) is going to inform your response.

If you are at fault, you will likely want to offer to rectify the issue proactively, either by removing the mold or by covering the cost of remediation performed by a certified professional. If you are not at fault, it may be time to explore your legal rights and options, especially if the homeowner continues to blame you for their situation.