Monthly Archives: January 2017

The Power of Images – Mold Remediation in Action

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We Are Number One in Mold Treatment!

We Are Number One in Mold Treatment!

While there have been numerous stories about the dangers of interior mold, it’s difficult for words alone to paint the picture. Our photo gallery features before-and-after pictures that graphically illustrate the unsightly health hazard of mold and the effectiveness of our proprietary MoldExterm treatment.

Before and After: Bathroom

The first three sets of photos show a bathroom that was one of our more recent projects. Bathrooms are a common site of mold infestations due to the frequent presence of excess moisture and the lack of sufficient ventilation.

Nearly every surface of the bathroom, including walls and window frames, was covered with dark mold patches. It would have been next to impossible for the homeowner to thoroughly remove such a heavy coat of mold, and more importantly, there would be a good likelihood of mold returning.

Afterwards, all surfaces are back to their light color. No building materials have been removed, and a polymer sealer has been added to repel future mold infestations.

Before and After: Basement

Basements are dark, damp, stuffy spaces that provide ideal conditions for mold to multiply. The next two sets of photos depict the basement of an art gallery that was overtaken by mold colonies.

Once again, MoldExterm made quick work of the mold stains on the ceiling and walls. None of the wooden ceiling beams required removal. The anti-microbial substrate provides a protective layer over all affected surfaces.

Stern Mold: The Leader in Mold Removal for NYC and Northern NJ

Our MoldExterm process is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to handle the toughest mold removal jobs in your home or office. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Treatment, MoldExterm

Mold Litigation – What You Need to Know to Protect Your Business

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Don't Wait until it's Too Late, Inspect Now!

Don’t Wait until it’s Too Late, Inspect Now!

If you’re a property manager, one of the things you want to avoid at all costs is mold litigation. It’s in your best interests to ensure that you promptly take care of your tenants’ mold problems, and you should also be inspecting properties regularly to watch for any signs of mold.

Protecting your business is your primary concern, and to do that, it’s important to know as much as you can about mold and fungus.

What is Toxic Mold Syndrome?

Certain types of mold can produce spores that are released into the air. They produce a toxin known as a mycotoxin, which can lead to serious health issues when the spores are inhaled. Some of the symptoms of Toxic Mold Syndrome include:

• Fever

• Body Aches

• Dizziness

• Breathing Problems

• Nausea

Some people are more susceptible to Toxic Mold Syndrome than others. Children, the elderly, and those who have weakened immune systems are at much greater risk.

How is Toxic Mold Syndrome Proven?

In order to prove that someone has Toxic Mold Syndrome, a few steps need to be taken. First, medical proof needs to be obtained. Second, the existence of mold exposure must be proven. Finally, there must be proof that a defendant was negligent in providing proper treatment to remove any mold and fungus issues that exist on the property.

It’s in your best interests as a property manager to act quickly if a mold issue is brought to your attention. That way, you can avoid costly and time-consuming mold litigation. Here at Stern Mold, we specialize in identifying mold problems and removing them. For a free inspection, contact us.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Remediation

Where to Look for Mold in NYC Apartments and Co-ops

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Know the Facts About Mold.

Know the Facts About Mold.

Due to the combination of aging buildings and increased consumer awareness, there has been a significant increase in lawsuits involving mold and fungus in NYC apartments and co-ops. Here are three red flags that could signal the right conditions for mold development.

1. Leaks from Neighboring Units

If an upstairs or next-door unit experiences a broken pipe or flooding, mold could be developing out of sight behind your apartment walls. Water leaks are actually more common in newer buildings, which use plastic instead of copper or galvanized steel for water lines.

2. Blocked PTAC Units

A packaged terminal air conditioner, or PTAC, is a self-contained heating and cooling system often found in apartment buildings and condominiums. These units are installed through the wall and require twice-yearly maintenance. If the drain becomes clogged because of a dirty filter, the condensate pan will leak and the damage can go undiscovered until it’s too late.

3. Broken Washing Machine Hose

Even today’s high-end washing machines usually come with rubber hoses that eventually develop leaks. You can head off damage by replacing the original hose with one that’s wrapped in stainless steel, which can be purchased fairly inexpensively at hardware or home improvement stores.

Stern Mold: Your #1 Choice for Mold and Fungus Removal in NYC

Traditional mold and fungus remediation involves removal of affected surfaces, which often results in scattering mold spores throughout the home. Our non-invasive MoldExterm system usually takes no more than a day and includes a polymer sealer to resist future mold infestations. Contact us to schedule your free mold inspection by our friendly and professionally-trained technicians.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, MoldExterm

NYC Gives Filing Help to Tenants Who Find Mold

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Don't Put Yourself at Risk, Get the Solutions You Deserve!

Don’t Put Yourself at Risk, Get the Solutions You Deserve!

Are you a tenant who is feeling helpless because your landlord refuses to provide necessary mold treatment? Officials in NYC have developed a valuable resource that provides recourse when your living situation becomes a health risk.

“Safe and Sanitary” Housing

NYC law states that landlords must maintain rental units in “safe and sanitary condition” and complete repairs “in a timely manner.” The language is broad enough to include issues such as mold infestations that present a danger to your health.

How Do You Assert Your Rights?

• You have the responsibility to contact your landlord first with any request for repairs or maintenance. Document all communication in writing, either hard copy or email, so you have a trail of evidence to support your claim.

• If your landlord fails to respond, you may file a complaint with the City. You also have the option of seeking help from the Housing Court.

• Any complaints involving apartments must include your contact information. If you’re reporting a situation that affects the entire building, contact information is still required but the complaint may be listed as anonymous in the public record.

• More help is available on the NYC website. You will find a copy of the City’s 311 privacy policy as well as information on Housing Court and Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Effective and Eco-Friendly Mold Treatment in NYC

Traditional mold remediation is difficult, messy and expensive. In addition, there’s a good chance that mold will reoccur. Our proprietary MoldExterm system is quick and non-intrusive, and it includes a patented polymer sealer that repels future mold infestations. Visit our website for more information and schedule your free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Law, Mold Tips, News

What NYC Property Managers Need to Know About Mold

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Know Your Choices on How to Deal With Mold

Know Your Choices on How to Deal With Mold

If you’re a property manager in New York City, mold and fungus are probably issues you’ve dealt with before. There’s no doubt that you understand how serious this problem is, but there’s a lot about mold and fungus that you might not know. Having the right knowledge will help you determine your approach to mold problems as they arise in your properties.

What is Mold?

Mold refers to any indoor multi-cellular fungal growth that can lead to a host of medical issues. Some of these issues include pulmonary disorders, respiratory problems, neurological disorders, or other illnesses. There are a number of mold types that can fall under this definition.

NYC Property Managers: Mold Treatment

A new law went into effect last year, which requires that certain conditions be met before someone can be considered as a contractor capable of diagnosing and treating mold. These individuals must meet three different standards of excellence, which include:

• Having the proper level of training

• Obtaining and maintaining the right licensing

• Meeting minimal work standards

Your Options for Treating Mold and Fungus

Obviously, this new law might change who you choose to contract with for mold treatment services, and rightly so. Every effort is being made to protect the tenants in your properties, as well as to protect you as a property manager. If you have a mold problem, it’s very important to be certain that it’s treated properly and efficiently.

Stern Mold offers mold treatment services, and we meet all of the requirements under the new law. If you have a mold problem, and you’d like a free inspection, we’d love to help you. Contact us.

Posted in Mold Law, Mold Treatment
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