Mold & Mildew Removal in Brentwood, TN

We live near Mill Creek. Does that raise the odds of mildew?

It can. During the May 2010 flood about 16.6 inches of rain fell on Brentwood over two days. The Little Harpeth River flooded the far west side of the city, and Mill Creek and Owl Creek flooded the far east side, both areas made up mostly of subdivisions. Homes near those creeks can see higher groundwater and damp lower levels during wet springs even without a flood. Williamson County emergency management notes that standard homeowner's policies don't cover flooding, and coverage comes through the National Flood Insurance Program. If mildew forms low on walls or on stored items in a lower level, treat it as a moisture issue and not only a stain.

Why does our big primary bath get mildew when the house is fairly new?

Large bathrooms with soaking tubs and walk-in showers put a lot of steam into the air, and a single exhaust fan may not keep up. Mildew then forms on the ceiling over the shower, in the grout and on the caulk. Run the fan during the shower and for 20 to 30 minutes after, crack the door, and wipe down glass. If the ceiling shows spots near the fan housing, the duct may be disconnected or venting into the attic, which can start growth up there too.

What does it cost to have someone else handle it?

Angi reports a national typical range of $500 to $1,000 for bathroom mold remediation, and $10 to $25 per square foot for most mold work; Middle Tennessee prices vary. The total rises if tile, drywall or carpet must be removed. Jobs of $25,000 or more require a Tennessee contractor's license with the S-F classification. If repairs follow, permits come from the City of Brentwood Planning and Codes Department on Maryland Way.

A Brentwood note

The Tennessee Department of Health notes that mold can start within 48 hours of flooding. After any water event, dry the area quickly and keep humidity below 60 percent. Lower levels and finished basements benefit from a dehumidifier that drains on its own, and stored boxes do better on shelves than on the floor. Renters with a leak the landlord won't fix can contact the City of Brentwood Codes Enforcement Section.