Mold Remediation in Hiram, GA

A small city that grew fast

Hiram incorporated as a town in 1891 and stayed small for a long time. Since 2000 it has grown quickly, centered on the US 278 and State Route 92 retail corridor, and it had about 4,900 residents at the 2020 Census. It's in Paulding County, roughly 23 miles west-northwest of downtown Atlanta in a straight line. Bill Carruth Parkway, the Silver Comet Trail and Ben Hill Strickland Park are local touchpoints.

Renters and absentee landlords

Hiram's Code Enforcement handles blight and property nuisances, and that includes properties not maintained by absentee landlords. If you rent and a roof, window or plumbing leak is feeding mold, report it there.

Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 44-7-13) requires landlords to keep the premises in repair. Georgia Legal Aid explains that the landlord has to be given notice of the problem first, so send it in writing and keep a copy, by hand delivery with a signed copy or by certified mail. Georgia doesn't allow rent withholding. Repair-and-deduct is risky unless the landlord agrees to the cost in writing; talk to a lawyer first. The DCA's Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook is a good general reference. This is general information, not legal advice.

Why houses here get damp

Newer subdivisions and older homes in Hiram share the same climate. Long, humid summers keep crawl spaces damp. AC systems run much of the year, and ducts in crawl spaces and attics can sweat. Red clay drains slowly after thunderstorms. Inside, a supply line, water heater or shower pan can leak for weeks before it shows.

EPA says the key to mold control is moisture control. Keep indoor humidity under 60 percent, clean AC drip pans, and dry wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.

Permits

Rebuilding after mold removal, such as new framing, subfloor or ductwork, may need a permit. Contact the City of Hiram to ask which office issues building permits for your address before work starts.

Health

Northwest Georgia Public Health is the state health district that covers Paulding County. EPA says mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs, and people with asthma or weakened immune systems should stay away from moldy areas. See a health professional about any symptoms.

Hiring a company

Georgia doesn't license mold remediation, and DPH says there are no enforceable state or federal standards for mold work. Ask the company how they'll contain the area and how they'll confirm it's dry. If the job includes rebuilding, check for a Georgia residential or general contractor license on GOALS Verify Now. Calling the number on this page connects you with an independent local company that serves Hiram.