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The Villages, FL Real Estate News

By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Mold Affecting your health at Home or Office? The Villages & Gainesville FlMold is a common issue in Florida due to its warm and humid climate, which provides optimal conditions for mold growth. Mold can thrive in homes, buildings, and other structures if there is moisture present. To prevent mold growth, it’s essential to keep indoor spaces well-ventilated, control humidity levels, promptly address any water leaks or spills, and regularly inspect and clean areas prone to mold growth, such as bathrooms, and kitchens.If you encounter mold in your home or property in Florida, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent further spread and potential health issues. Additionally, Florida’s Department of Health provides resources and information on mold prevention and remediation, and the...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
If you're concerned about potential mold issues at home or business—or if you already have an active problem—contact your insurer immediately for more details on what kind of help they may be able to provide. Then make sure that when submitting a claim, all necessary documents (including photos) are available so that your insurer can assess the situation quickly and accurately - they may even offer additional advice or recommendations on how best to deal with the issue at hand! Performing a Mold Assessment will give you the necessary information (Mold Assessment Report) to be able to present to your insurance company a document that cannot be challenged by the claim adjuster if it is done professionally. For more information related to our professional mold inspections and mold assessme...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
What Are The  Symptoms of Mold Exposure?​There is a great deal of media exposure concerning "Black Mold".  The most frequent references to "Black Mold" are concerning a form of Stachybotrys, Chaetomium, Memnoniella, Trichoderma and Fusarium Mold which is a common mold usually associated with wet building materials. The goal of any mold remediation project is to have zero Stachybotrys mold spores (or similar water damaged molds). If you are observing mold on surfaces of any building materials it could make you sick. However, some molds are not very visible, and any signs of water damage (especially if prolonged) can be harboring mold spores. Musty odors, on the other hand, may be an indication of poorly controlled humidity causing common mold spores (those in the outside air) to increase...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Mold can be a major issue for both homeowners and businesses. For those unfortunate enough to be affected by mold, the task of dealing with it can often be difficult or expensive—but what about insurance? Can you get help from your insurer if you have mold damage in your home or business in Florida? Here's what you need to know. The BasicsThe short answer is yes, some insurance policies will cover mold damage in Florida. However, this isn't always the case and there are a few other factors that come into play as well. Specifically, how much coverage you'll get depends on the type of policy you have and what kind of damage was caused by the mold. For example, most standard homeowner’s policies do not cover any damage that occurs due to mold growth except for limited water-related damage....
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
What You Don’t See Could Be Your Biggest Threat Mold is a common component of indoor air throughout the state of Florida. With its high level of moisture and humidity, the Florida climate is the perfect environment for mold and other harmful contaminants to flourish, creating inhospitable and unhealthy conditions in homes and businesses throughout the state. The mold you see can be professionally removed and the area restored to its original condition. Visible mold is a problem that should be quickly addressed and remedied.It’s the mold you don’t see that becomes a serious health risk. In some cases, the smell of mold alerts residents and building owners. However, in many instances, such as with black mold, mold goes completely undetected. When black mold remains undiscovered, it can r...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Mold Basics  The key to mold control is moisture control. If mold is a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem. It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Why is mold growing in my home?Molds are part of the natural environment.  Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees.  But indoors, mold growth should be avoided.  Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air.  Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet.  There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture. Can mold cause...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Got Mold??? Don't Just Hire Anyone!! Ask for references and credentials. Highly important.Not all Mold Assessors have the same education, training, experience, and expertise. Many companies have a great and effective website for marketing purposes. Many pay Google by the click to be in the first page on top, however, when checking the people doing the project, they lack the correct credentials. How do you select the best medical caretaker in your area? Most likely you spend time doing your research and asking questions and reference. The same applies when selecting your Mold Inspector / Assessor. Do your due diligence so you will not be surprised when receiving your mold assessment report.  Is the selected Mold Assessor has a college degree (Engineering, Chemistry, Biology…). Is he prop...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Common Causes of MoldHere are some of the common causes of mold: (The Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, Florida) Humidity: If you live in a humid climate, the possibility of mold is very high as this fungus thrives in humid places. In places like Gainesville, The Villages and Ocala, Florida, where it rains constantly, the humidity is naturally high, which is why you may need a mold assessment. Leaking Pipes or Roof: More often than not, it’s a water leak within the structure of the house resulting in mold formation. A leaking pipe is the most common reason for mold behind drywall and under the sink. Also, if the roof is damaged and leaks water, it can also cause mold on the roof and even the floor. Winter Condensation: In winters, a condensation layer can form on surfaces because of fluctua...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
It depends on the situation and the person. This question is difficult to answer in the same way it's hard to say how much sun causes a sunburn: the amount varies from person to person. What one person can tolerate with little or no effect may cause symptoms in another individual.The long-term presence of indoor mold may eventually become unhealthy for anyone. Those with special health concerns should consult a medical doctor if they feel their health is affected by indoor mold. The following types of people may be affected sooner and more severely than others: Babies and children Elderly persons Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions or allergies or asthma Persons having weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV or AIDS, chemotherapy patients, or organ transplant r...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
BLACK MOLD = STACHYBORYS? The Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, FloridaStachybotrys needs two main ingredients to thrive: a high-cellulose surface, and a near-constant water supply. Cellulose is a fiber found in the cell walls of plants and especially concentrated in processed, plant-derived building materials. Paper, drywall (which is coated with paper), and fiberboard are especially high in cellulose and make great locations for Stachybotrys to thrive. The second ingredient, a constant water source, can result from a myriad of causes. One-time issues like water damage and flooding can provide ideal conditions for toxic mold. Continuous issues can prove especially troublesome, since they supply a consistent source of water that facilitates mold growth. Homeowners should always look out for...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Mold growth is a common problem, a leak or water intrusion can easily result in a mold issue. Mold can be the cause of numerous respiratory ailments, as well as causing extensive property damage. Some individuals may not even be aware of any water damage, but suspect mold growth due to the musty odor that mold gives off. If you have recently experienced any form of water damage or suspect mold, you need to have mold testing and mold inspection completed by a professional testing group like INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST (IMS) as a first step to determine if remediation and removal is necessary. IMS stringent standards allow only experts in the field of mold testing and mold remediation to be considered for our network. Our team of environmental consultants has provided mold testing and mo...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Mold is the term given to different types of fungi which reproduce by forming tiny spores, so small that they cannot be seen by the naked eye. These spores travel through the air until they find a habitat which is moist and then they start to grow. That is when the various types of mold can become visible. While certain molds are toxigenic, meaning they can produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins), the molds themselves are not toxic, or poisonous. However, because more than 200 species of mold are toxin-producing, this means that they are potentially poisonous and the health dangers from them are many. The molds which can cause health dangers are usually found indoors and can be white or greenish in color or, in the case of Stachybotrys atra, black which gives it the more commonly-used ...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
How Does Indoor Microbial Specialist (IMS) Perform Mold Testing?The easy part is, believe it or not, determining that there is mold present in the home. The value of the testing lies in the experience of the tester and how thorough they are. All of our mold testing samples are sent to an IAHA accredited laboratory for extensive review analysis. This allows us to determine specific types and levels of contaminants that may be affecting your indoor environment. IMS mold test involves collecting samples in order to:      Identify the types of mold present      Quantify the levels of molds present  The three most common types of samples used in our mold inspection are:      Surface samples (testing mold growth on surfaces)      Air samples (testing airborne mold spores)      Dust samples (m...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Is mold in your home got you worried? Indoor Microbial Specialist is here to help. We have a team of experts that will help you confirm if mold is present at home! We are The Villages Mold Inspection and Mold Assessment company of choice. The presence of mold in homes, schools, and businesses is of mounting concern in Florida. Mold grows on virtually any organic material, be it in food, carpet, wood or paper. To grow, mold only needs three main ingredients: food, moisture, and optimum temperature. So anytime there is a water intrusion, be it a minor plumbing leak or a major flood that wasn’t dried, there is a high chance of mold growth.   Mold can cause serious health problems that range from:      Coughing      Sneezing      Itchy eyes      Serious allergic reactions      Asthma attack...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Don't Just Hire Anyone!! Ask for references and credentials. Highly important.Not all Mold Assessors have the same education, training, experience, and expertise. Many companies have a great and effective website for marketing purposes. Many pay Google by the click to be in the first page on top, however, when checking the people doing the project, they lack the correct credentials. How do you select the best medical caretaker in your area? Most likely you spend time doing your research and asking questions and reference. The same applies when selecting your Mold Inspector / Assessor. Do your due diligence so you will not be surprised when receiving your mold assessment report.  Is the selected Mold Assessor has a college degree (Engineering, Chemistry, Biology…). Is he properly License...
Comments 4
By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
When unwanted molds appear in ventilating systems or in other spaces within occupied buildings, exposures of occupants to those molds can lead to serious problems. In general, the types and concentrations of mold that affect IAQ are like those found in outdoor air. However, background mold numbers may shift whenever water accumulates in buildings. Damage caused by floods, plumbing leaks and roof leaks results in mold developing and formation of mold colonies.Moisture is the principal determinant of mold growth indoors. Different levels of moisture are needed for growth of different molds. For instance, Aspergillus and Penicillium require little available moisture and often are found along drier areas of water damaged materials. Other molds that require damp buildings where mold and bact...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Ten Things You Should Know About Mold: 1) Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory problems. 2) There is no practical way to completely eliminate mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. The way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture. 3) If mold is a problem in your home or building, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture. 4) To prevent mold growth any source of a water problem or leak must be repaired. 5) Indoor humidity must be reduced (generally below 60%) to reduce the chances of mold growth by: adequately venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and ...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
Chemically speaking, chlorine bleach is a water solution of sodium hypochlorite. Common household laundry bleach, used to whiten and disinfect laundry, is typically 5.25 percent (“regular strength”). OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) was one of the first federal agencies to STOP recommending the use of liquid bleach for mold remediation. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has since edited their “A brief guide to mold and moisture and your home” to exclude their once suggested use of bleach to kill mold. So, what is mold? Let’s go over the basics to gets a better understanding of how it works and how it should be properly treated.  NO ONE KNOWS HOW MANY SPECIES OF FUNGI EXIST BUT ESTIMATES RANGE FROM TENS OF THOUSANDS TO THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND OR MORE. - CDC.GOV...
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By Rob Arnold, Metro Orlando Full Service - Investor Friendly & F
(Sand Dollar Realty Group, Inc.)
The Vilages in north Central Florida is known for its endless recreation, golf carts instead of cars, and as a paradise for senior citizens.  What it doesn't like to be known for is all the sinkholes that continue to happen there.  It is on the northern end of an area north of Tampa Bay known as "sinkhole alley" .  While the alley is mostly considered in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Hernando Counties, there are still quite a few sinkholes north up into the Villages and Ocala as well. Over the weekend 3 such sinkholes opened up near the Moyer Recreation Center in the Villages.  Here is a Villages-News article about it.  Massive sinkhole opens up in the Villages FloridaIf you are having sinkhole or foundation troubles, please call me for a free consulation.  We buy sinkhole damaged homes and ...
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By John M. Acaron, CMI, MRSA, Master Mold Inspector & Chief Mold Assessor
(INDOOR MICROBIAL SPECIALIST)
The presence of mold growth indoors is not normal and may pose health and/or comfort risks to some exposed occupants. Mold growth requires spores (“seeds”), favorable temperatures, a food supply, and moisture. Like plants, mold grows by spreading, and the release of spores. Mold easily spreads outward under favorable conditions. However, if conditions are unfavorable for growth, mold will go dormant and release spores into the air so they can find a suitable environment for survival. Moisture, nutrients, and favorable temperatures can lead to mold growth in water-damaged materials in 24 to 48 hours. Affected materials should be dried promptly to prevent germination and subsequent mold growth. Relative humidity levels less than 30% yield little growth. Humidity levels greater than 70% yi...
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