Black Mold Removal in Powder Springs, GA

How bad has flooding been in Powder Springs?

Severe in the September 2009 floods. Three National Weather Service gauges listed at Powder Springs went above flood stage: Powder Springs Creek crested at 19.82 feet against a 12-foot stage, Noses Creek at 23.20 feet against 11 feet, and Sweetwater Creek at 31.45 feet against 13 feet. NWS says the Sweetwater Creek basin rose to the 500-year flood level, and USGS reported that flood magnitudes on Powder Springs Creek greatly exceeded the estimated 500-year flood. The city, about 19 miles west of downtown Atlanta and named for seven mineral springs within its limits, sits in that basin. Not every house is at risk, but homes near the creeks can take water in extreme storms.

What has to come out after water gets in?

EPA says if a home could not be dried within 24 to 48 hours, assume mold is growing. Moldy carpet and pad, insulation, ceiling tile and drywall usually go. Solid wood framing and hard surfaces can often be cleaned and dried. A remediation company should seal off the work area, remove wet material, clean the framing and confirm it is dry with a moisture meter before anything is closed up. Dark color on the remaining surfaces does not mean special danger; EPA says color does not tell you how risky a mold is.

Who do I contact at the city?

For rebuilding, a permit application and construction drawings go to the City of Powder Springs Community Development Department. Renters with a leak the landlord has not fixed can report code violations within city limits to the Quality of Life Division, after giving the landlord written notice. Cobb & Douglas Public Health says tenants with mold from a mechanical or structural failure may contact their local building inspections department. Georgia has no mold license; for rebuild work, ask whether the company holds a Georgia residential or general contractor license and check it on GOALS Verify Now.

A local note

Everyday sources matter as much as floods. A slow plumbing leak, an AC drain line or a damp crawl space can grow dark mold in any Powder Springs home.