Mold Remediation in Nolensville, TN

Is my house at risk if it isn't near a river?

Nolensville is a Williamson County town about 17 miles south-southeast of downtown Nashville. Williamson County says the Harpeth River and its creeks are the main local flood sources and that flash floods can come with little warning. In the May 2010 flood, about 13.4 inches of rain fell in Nolensville over two days. You don't need a river at the back fence for water to get in: runoff, saturated soil and a clogged gutter can all push water into a crawl space. Check your lot on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center, and remember that the county considers most streams and creeks the property owner's responsibility.

Why does a fairly new house still get mold?

Mold needs moisture more than age. Middle Tennessee summers are hot and humid, and many homes carry ductwork through an attic or crawl space where warm air hits cool metal. Tight, efficient construction can also hold in humidity from showers and cooking. EPA advises keeping indoor humidity below 60 percent, ideally 30 to 50, cleaning AC drip pans and keeping drain lines open. Builder-grade bath fans that vent into the attic instead of outdoors are worth checking.

Can I clean it myself?

EPA says that in most cases a homeowner can handle an area under about 10 square feet. More than that, mold after significant water damage, or mold inside the HVAC system calls for a professional. Don't run a heating or cooling system you think is contaminated. Testing usually isn't needed when mold is visible, according to EPA, and there are no federal limits for mold spores.

Who handles permits and complaints?

The Town of Nolensville Building Codes Department issues residential and commercial building permits through the town's GeoCivix online portal. Mold cleanup itself isn't permitted work, but rebuilding walls or structure afterward can be. The town has adopted and enforces the International Property Maintenance Code, so a renter with an unfixed leak should contact the Building Codes Department directly.

Who can answer health questions?

The Williamson County Health Department on West Main Street in Franklin is the local public health office. The Tennessee Department of Health notes mold can begin growing within 48 hours of flooding. EPA says mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs; for personal health concerns, see a health professional.

A note on hiring

The call connects you with an independent local company. For jobs of $25,000 or more, ask for the Tennessee contractor's license with the mold remediation (S-F) classification and confirm it on TDCI's Verify a License search.