Indoor Environment Connections. Volume 12, issue 2. December 2009
"Stachybotris is to our housing market as forclosures are to our economy. What does that mean? Stachybotris and other popular molds that grow as a result of wet building materials are becoming more and more prevalent due to an increase in foreclosed and vacant homes throughout the United States and abroad. The fast growth of mold cases is also making a direct impact on property values that have already declined dramatically.
Vacant and unsupervised properties have a much greater chance for microbial contamination due to non-operating HVAC systems and high humidity conditions. The problem is especially great in warmer climates.
Undetected leaks, oveflows or water intrusion are also immediate dangers especially when a property is unattended and the owner unaware. The economic recession and the declining housing market have allowed for more vacant properties then ever, creating a growing challenge for banks, buyers and the indoor air qualty industry.
Properties left unsupervised and vacant are susceptible to microbial contamination and unsafe airborn conditions. Most properties that are taken over by a bank are usually left vacant without electric service in an effort to reduce costs. In addition, banking institutions do not have the manpower or foresight to perform routine inspections of the vacant properties."
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