Basement Mold Removal in Dunwoody, GA

Dunwoody basements

Dunwoody sits about 14 miles north of downtown Atlanta. Residential development took off in the 1960s, with neighborhoods such as Georgetown mixing single-family subdivisions and apartments. Homes from that period are now old enough for original gutters, grading and waterproofing to have worn out, and finished lower levels added along the way often cover the evidence. A basement rec room or guest suite finished in the 1980s or 1990s may have drywall and carpet sitting directly against a block wall with no moisture barrier, which is an easy place for mold to grow unseen. Heavy tree cover in older subdivisions also keeps gutters full of leaves.

Steps to take now

1. Find the source. Look at the wall after a storm, check under sinks and around the water heater and laundry, and walk the outside to see where downspouts empty.
2. Dry it out. EPA says to dry water-damaged materials within 24 to 48 hours. Fans and a dehumidifier help; keep indoor humidity below 60 percent.
3. Judge the size. Under about 10 square feet on a hard surface is often a homeowner job, according to EPA. Anything larger, or growth inside walls, needs containment.
4. Keep sensitive people away. Anyone with asthma or a weakened immune system should avoid the area.
5. Don't cover it up. EPA says not to paint or caulk over mold.
6. Renters, put it in writing. Tell the landlord about the leak in writing and keep a copy.

Common signs and their usual causes

What drives the cost

Angi's Atlanta cost guide puts basement mold remediation at $587 to $3,522, at about $12 to $29 per square foot. The size of the affected area, how much finished material has to come out, containment and any drainage work set the total. Rebuilding walls is construction work; City of Dunwoody Community Development Permits and Inspections can tell you whether it needs a permit. Ask any company whether it holds a Georgia residential or general contractor license and check it on GOALS Verify Now.