Black Mold Removal in Lithonia, GA

Has flooding been a problem around Lithonia?

Yes, in a big storm. During the September 2009 floods, the National Weather Service recorded the Yellow River at Georgia Highway 124 cresting at 27.47 feet against a 15-foot flood stage, and the South River gauge at Lithonia cresting at 13.55 feet against a 12-foot flood stage on September 21. Not every home is near those rivers, but the event shows how much water the area can take in a few days. EPA's guidance after any flood is direct: if a home could not be dried within 24 to 48 hours, assume mold is growing. Wet drywall, insulation, carpet and pad usually have to go, and the framing has to be dried and checked before anything is rebuilt.

Is the black mold in my older house more dangerous?

Not because of its color. Lithonia, a small historic granite-quarrying town about 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta, has older homes around its Main Street and historic district that may have crawl spaces, older plumbing and settled foundations. Those raise the chance of mold, not its danger. EPA says color does not tell you how risky a mold is. Any mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs, and people with asthma or weakened immune systems should keep away from the area. Talk to a health professional with health concerns. The removal plan depends on how big the growth is and what keeps it wet.

What can I do myself, and what should a company do?

Small spots, under about 10 square feet, on tile or painted surfaces can usually be scrubbed with detergent and water and dried, once the leak is fixed. Wear gloves, goggles and an N-95 mask. Leave larger patches, growth in walls or ductwork, and anything left by flood water to a remediation company that sets up containment, removes damaged material and dries the structure. Do not paint over mold; EPA says it will not stop it.

Local offices

The City of Lithonia handles building permits through its Planning and Zoning office, and Lithonia Code Enforcement is the place for renters to report leaks a landlord has not repaired. DeKalb Public Health addresses indoor mold only in permitted facilities such as restaurants and hotels, but offers information for homeowners and renters.