Mold & Mildew Cleanup in Chamblee, GA

Why does the lower level of my Chamblee split-level smell musty?

Many Chamblee neighborhoods, including Sexton Woods, Keswick Village, Huntley Hills and Beverly Hills, were built in the 1950s and early 1960s with ranch and split-level homes. In a split-level, the lower floor sits partly below grade, so its walls stay cooler than the summer air and collect condensation. Original ductwork may not deliver enough conditioned air down there, and the room never dries out. A dehumidifier set to keep the space below 60 percent, as the EPA recommends, often makes the biggest difference. Keep rugs and stored boxes off the floor along the outside wall.

Can I clean it myself, and what should I use?

For an area under about 10 square feet, generally yes. Scrub hard surfaces with detergent and water and dry them completely. Do not paint over growth, and throw out carpet padding or ceiling tiles that stay musty, since the EPA notes porous materials may have to go. Wear gloves and eye protection. The EPA says mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs; anyone with asthma or a weakened immune system should let someone else do the cleaning.

Do I need a permit if drywall has to be replaced?

Cleaning does not, but rebuilding may. The City of Chamblee Development Department issues residential building permits and schedules inspections through the city's iWorQ portal, at 3518 Broad Street or 770-986-5010. Georgia has no state mold license. For rebuild work, ask whether the company holds a Georgia residential or general contractor license and check it on the Secretary of State's GOALS Verify Now lookup; Georgia law treats residential work over $2,500 as contractor work, so confirm current rules with the state licensing board.

A local note

Chamblee is about 11 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Alongside its mid-century neighborhoods, lofts and townhomes downtown have gone up since 2000, and those tighter buildings tend to grow mildew from trapped shower steam rather than from the ground. For health questions, start with a health professional, the DeKalb County Board of Health and Georgia DPH's mold page. Renters should check with the city which office takes housing complaints about unrepaired leaks.