No matter the size, leaky plumbing can cause a variety of problems including water damage leading to the eventual growth of mold and mildew. Because pipes are typically located within the walls or behind fixtures, leaks often go undetected causing moisture buildup behind walls, under flooring, and in ceilings. By the time the leak is discovered, mold has often already begun to grow.
Some common signs of undetected water damage and mold growth from pipe leaks are:
- Audible water dripping or rushing within the walls
- A general musty smell around the walls or flooring
- Wrinkled or bubbling paint on walls and ceilings
- Popping or warping of floors and baseboards
- Visible discoloration on walls, ceilings, and baseboards
A mold inspector can perform mold testing with both air quality tests and surface sampling to verify the presence of mold in a structure. These tests will help determine the species and quantity of mold present so the mold remediation process used will be as thorough and effective as possible.