Mold Remediation in Brentwood, TN

Creeks on both edges of the city

Brentwood is a Williamson County city about 12 miles south of downtown Nashville. Its flood history is about creeks more than one big river. During the May 2010 storms, about 16.6 inches of rain fell over two days. The Little Harpeth River flooded the far west side of the city, while Mill Creek and Owl Creek flooded the far east side, and both areas are mostly subdivisions.

Williamson County's emergency management office says the Harpeth River and its creeks are the main local flood sources and that flash floods can come with little warning. It also points out that most streams and creeks are the property owner's responsibility, so keeping a backyard channel clear of debris is on you. Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center for your property.

What to do after water gets in

1. Stop the source or wait for the water to drop, then get wet carpet, pads and furniture out.
2. Dry everything you can within 24 to 48 hours. EPA says that if that window passes, assume mold is growing.
3. Don't run a central air system you suspect is contaminated; EPA warns it can spread mold through the house.
4. Photograph damage for your insurer before it's removed. Homeowner's policies don't cover flooding; flood coverage comes through the NFIP.

Mold without a flood

Many Brentwood houses will never see creek water and still get mold. Humid summer air settles in vented crawl spaces, attics get hot and damp, and ductwork in either place can sweat. A leaking ice-maker line or a failed shower pan can soak a wall for months before anything shows. Watch for a lingering musty smell, stains that spread, and paint or wallpaper that bubbles.

City offices

The City of Brentwood Planning and Codes Department on Maryland Way issues building permits and has an online permitting portal. Mold removal itself isn't permitted work, but rebuilding framing or walls afterward can be, so ask before the contractor closes things up.

The department's Codes Enforcement Section enforces property maintenance and nuisance codes. Renters with a leak their landlord hasn't fixed can report a suspected violation through the city's Citizen Comment Form or by calling Planning and Codes.

The Williamson County Health Department in Franklin is the public health office for Brentwood. EPA says mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs; people with asthma or weakened immune systems should stay away from moldy areas. Ask a health professional about health concerns.

Licensing and the call

For projects of $25,000 or more, Tennessee requires a contractor's license, and mold remediation carries the S-F classification. Williamson County isn't on TDCI's list for the separate Home Improvement license. We'll connect you with an independent local company; confirm its status on TDCI's Verify a License search.