Look under your home<\/strong><\/h2>\nEven if most people don’t think about what is under their feet, it’s important to remember your home doesn’t stop on the first floor. Basements (although rare in FL, they do exist!) and\u00a0crawlspaces\u00a0are a hive of unseen activity.<\/p>\n
\n- Take a flashlight and check the corners, pipes and vents for dirt, dust, mildew, drips, and leaks. If your vents are covered or dirty, air cannot circulate properly, leading to a build-up of moisture and eventually to mildew and mold. Let’s face it, if you could see it every day you wouldn’t want to share your home with it.<\/li>\n
- A small drip, like hidden mildew, is easily brushed aside but left to its own devices, will become a small, and eventually not so small puddle of standing, stagnant water. Not only does damage your property but it smells really bad.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
From the bottom up<\/strong><\/h2>\nOnce you have recovered from the thought of growing mold spores in your basement, it’s time to inspect the rest of your interior.<\/p>\n
\n- The first task is to check all those dark corners in the remaining areas of your home. Signs of mold means moisture isn’t escaping; clean your air vents thoroughly and do the same with exhaust fans and screens. Check all your air filters and replace any that are past their best.<\/li>\n
- Fire is a major cause of homeowners insurance claims, but is easily prevented in most cases; clean the back of your fridge and freezer and clear out any lint and dust from your dryer hose and vent.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Outside, sides and roof<\/strong><\/h2>\nIt’s time to go outside and check for dirt and damage.<\/p>\n