Mold Remediation in Cross Plains, TN

Getting oriented

Cross Plains is a rural city of 1,789 (2020 Census) in Robertson County, about 27 miles north of Nashville. It sits on State Route 25 between Springfield and Gallatin, close to Interstate 65 and U.S. 31W. Settlement here goes back to Kilgore Station in 1778, making it one of the earliest settled areas in the region. Kilgore Park and Thomas Drugs are local landmarks.

Moisture and mold

The Middle Fork of the Red River runs about three-quarters of a mile west of town. Homes on lower ground nearer the river or along drainage ways can see wetter soil under the house, and that moisture moves up into crawl spaces. The Tennessee Department of Health notes that the state's humidity alone can lead to mold growth, and that mold can start within 48 hours of flooding. It advises throwing out wet items that can't be cleaned and dried within those 48 hours.

Inside the house, check these places first:

• Crawl space insulation and floor joists, especially under kitchens and bathrooms
• The attic sheathing around vents, chimneys and valleys after spring storms
• Around the AC air handler and its drain line in summer
• Closets and corners on exterior walls where air doesn't move

EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity below 60 percent and fixing leaks before any cleanup.

Permits and complaints

Cross Plains is incorporated, and the city's building department handles building permits. Cleaning mold doesn't call for a permit, but replacing structural framing or making bigger repairs afterward may, so ask the city before that work starts. Tenants whose landlord hasn't fixed a leak or moisture problem should check with the town or county codes office about filing a complaint.

Health department

The Robertson County Health Department at 800 South Brown Street in Springfield serves Cross Plains. EPA says mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs. People with asthma or weakened immune systems should avoid moldy areas and talk to a health professional about symptoms.

Licensing in Robertson County

Robertson is one of the Tennessee counties where TDCI requires a Home Improvement license for residential jobs from $3,000 up to $25,000. At $25,000 and above, a full contractor's license is required, and mold remediation has its own S-F classification. Check any company you're considering on TDCI's Verify a License search. When you call, you'll be connected with an independent local company, and it's smart to use a separate inspector for clearance testing.