Mould & Asbestos Complicate Rescue Reno

Basement apartment renovations seem like a great idea but they can reveal a host of problems in an older home – like the mould and asbestos that complicated a reno rescue.

A Toronto woman’s story about tragedy turned to neighbourly helpfulness makes you believe in the goodness of people again. Twyla Gendron was hit by a series of blows a couple of years ago. Her husband died suddenly, she lost her job and was herself diagnosed with breast cancer. She thought she’d have to leave her bungalow because she couldn’t afford the mortgage.

Friends stepped in and decided to renovate her unfinished basement into an apartment suite to help with the mortgage. Funds were raised and Scott McGillivray, host of the show Income Property, stepped in to do the work for free between episodes.

That’s when complications set in. They found mould and asbestos in the leaky old basement that ballooned the costs and amount of work to be done. But, goodwill held out and it’s now a sparkling clean apartment with new windows, floors, doubled insulation and more.

Luckily, her story has a happy ending. But what about your planned basement reno?

Know What You’re Dealing With
In this case, similar to many homes, an unfinished basement means one that is seldom used. Things like leaks, moisture and exactly what is in those walls and insulation aren’t noticed – until the homeowner wants to make a change.

Before you start renovations, let us help. We can offer you asbestos testing and mould testing services that will ensure you don’t have any nasty surprises along the way.

Even if you’re not renovating, your unused basement could be making your family sick. Mould spores and friable (inhalable) asbestos can get from a basement into your HVAC system and circulate throughout your home.

Get peace of mind from GreenStream Environmental – call us for:

• Professional mould removal services and/or
• An asbestos inspection or removal quote

You’ll be glad you did!

In the Toronto area contact GreenStreamEnvironmental.ca at (416) 818-9414.

Featured in Mike Holmes’ magazine, HGTV’s Income Properties, W Network’s Love It Or List It and chosen by Homestars.com as “Best Toronto Asbestos Removal Company” based on customer ratings and reviews, GreenStream Environmental Services are fully-certified, trusted and insured professionals in the removal and disposal of commercial, industrial, institutional and residential asbestos, vermiculite and mould (hazardous and non-hazardous). Providing emergency service 24/7/365 for all of Toronto and the GTA (North York, Mississauga, Markham, Brampton, Scarborough, Ajax, Oshawa, and beyond) GreenStream has over 40 combined years of experience serving clients such as the City of Toronto, the Toronto District School Board and many more. For a free estimate in Toronto, the GTA and Southern Ontario, call today at 416-818-9414.  You’ll be glad you did.