Mold warranty not required for new-home construction

June 13, 2006

Mortage 101

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Homeowners take their chances with lumber's moisture level

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Dear Barry,

We are currently having a house built and became concerned when we

noticed mold on some of the roof rafters. When we pointed this out

to the builders, they had the wood surfaces professionally cleaned

and chemically treated. But then we asked them for a warranty to

cover future mold, and that's where they drew the line. They flatly

refused. Should we insist that they provide a warranty in case any

mold returns, or is that an unreasonable demand? --

Dear ,

Construction lumber typically has surface mold and mildew due to

moisture retention in stacks of wood during storage. This type of

mold can be found on the framing members in most attics and is

generally not regarded as a significant health hazard. If it remains

dry, as is likely within an attic, it should not become active or

have further growth.

You are unusually fortunate to have builders willing to address this

mold in such a forthright manner. Although the effectiveness of

these procedures cannot be guaranteed, this is more than most

builders would have been willing to do. So be grateful and don't

push too hard. Asking them to provide a written warranty against

future mold infection is well beyond the realm of reasonable

expectations. It would subject them to unpredictable levels of legal

liability and would be strongly discouraged by any prudent business

adviser.

In the real world, mold happens. You'll just have to take your

chances along with the rest of us. The best way to avoid it is to

maintain dry conditions and proper ventilation as much as possible.

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