Many residents across Long Island experienced flooding or pipe breaks during the past winter. A number of homeowners also faced claim denials from their insurance carriers, leaving them to cover repairs out of pocket or address the damage themselves. With summer now here and rising heat and humidity, many homeowners are noticing persistent musty odors in their basements and wondering “What’s that smell?”
If you are experiencing a musty or damp basement odor, it may indicate a mold issue—often the result of inadequate drying after that winter water intrusion. The most reliable way to determine whether mold is present inside walls or in other concealed areas is to engage a licensed mold assessor, such as Roberts Environmental in Bohemia. A qualified mold assessor or hygienist will collect air samples from multiple locations throughout the home as well as from the exterior. These samples are then analyzed by a laboratory, which provides quantitative results identifying the types of mold present and the concentration of spores in each area.
If laboratory results confirm the presence of mold, it is important to recognize the potential health risks. In such cases, homeowners are advised to retain a certified mold remediation or abatement contractor, such as Green Metro Restoration, to ensure the contamination is properly and safely removed.
This process can often be frustrating, overwhelming, and costly. Mold exposure may cause various health issues, including migraines, a stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, coughing, burning or watery eyes, and itchy skin rashes or dermatitis. In sensitive individuals, mold spores can trigger asthma attacks, leading to wheezing and shortness of breath. These symptoms should not be taken lightly, and prompt professional evaluation is strongly recommended.
Don’t let that musty odor become a larger problem. Contact a licensed mold assessor today to evaluate your home and take the first step to protect both your property and your family’s health.
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