Leaky Windows, Mould and Potential Legal Issues

A minor leak in a window can go unnoticed or, depending on where it is, unrepaired. A small leak in a basement window, after all, only involves a few drops during a heavy rain. If the basement if unfinished, where’s the big rush to spend money on repairs or new windows?

Mould. That’s the answer.

Mould facts
The fact is that mould can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours wherever there is moisture that doesn’t dry out. Basements are particularly prone to dampness that lingers, often unnoticed.

• Once mould has taken hold, it can spread through the HVAC system, dispersing mould spores throughout your home.

Mould is a recognized health hazard with many potential repercussions. It can cause a variety of flu-like symptoms such as persistent cough and throat irritation among others.

• It can worsen existing asthma and other respiratory issues;
• Eye and nose irritation;
• Persistent sinus congestion;
• Wheezing and shortness of breath.

Finding the leak
Sometimes the source of the leak is easy to spot, other times not so much. With older windows, the water can simply be seeping in around the windows. In that case, they can often be resealed from the inside or outside.

• Remember to check under carpets and if necessary, flooring. Carpeting provides the ideal environment for mould to thrive.

Once you have found the problem, windows are a relatively straightforward repair, but when it comes to mould, you’ll need professional help to clean it up.

Buying or selling?
If you are buying or selling a home, fixing leaks and dealing with mould are crucial issues. With housing prices skyrocketing in the GTA, many potential buyers are foregoing the usual home inspections and may be buying somebody else’s mould problems. Are you letting yourself in for someone else’s problems – or courting legal issues by passing them on to the buyer?

We can help
If you suspect the presence of mould in your home, you can’t afford to cut corners or “save money” while you damage your health and that of your family. You can trust the experienced mould removal experts at GreenStream Environmental to take care of the issue for you. In the Toronto area contact GreenStreamEnvironmental.ca at (416) 818-9414. Contact us for a quote today.

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.