How to Prevent Mold in the Summertime

Summer is the peak season for home sales but it’s also prime time for mold growth, especially in humid climates. As a real estate professional, helping your clients understand how to prevent mold not only protects the value of their property but also builds trust in your expertise.

Here’s a practical guide you can share with buyers, sellers, and homeowners to help them stay mold-free all summer long.

Why Mold Spikes in the Summer

Mold thrives in warm, humid conditions, especially in areas with poor airflow or unnoticed moisture in basements, attics, bathrooms, and HVAC systems. Summer often brings:

• Increased humidity

• Condensation on cool surfaces

• Sudden storms or leaks

Without proper prevention, mold can grow in as little as 24-48 hours.

Mold Prevention Tips to Share with Clients

1. Control Indoor Humidity (Target: 30–50%)

Use dehumidifiers, especially in basements or poorly ventilated rooms. Encourage clients to install a hygrometer (a humidity gauge) to keep an eye on moisture levels.

2. Use A/C Efficiently

Advise homeowners to run the A/C consistently, not just when it's hot. A steady indoor temperature keeps surfaces from building up condensation, which feeds mold.

3. Check for Leaks

Before listing a home, walk through and check:

• Pipes under sinks

• Around windows and doors

• Attics and crawl spaces after a storm

Even a small drip can lead to major mold issues in a few weeks.

4. Keep Air Flowing

In bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, make sure exhaust fans are functioning. For closets and corners of rooms, encourage periodic door openings or placing small fans.

5. Inspect the Roof & Gutters

Clogged gutters or missing shingles can allow moisture to seep into walls or ceilings. A quick roof inspection in late spring or early summer can prevent big problems.

Bonus: Tips for Staging a Mold-Free Home

For homes on the market this summer:

• Use a light citrus or eucalyptus scent (never overpowering)

• Place moisture absorbers in bathrooms and closets

• Keep windows slightly cracked during showings to reduce stuffiness

Buyers will notice musty smells instantly, so make sure the home feels dry, clean, and breathable.

🔍 Educate, Don’t Alarm

As a real estate professional, your role is to educate, not scare. Mold is preventable with the right habits and awareness. Sharing this info shows clients you care about long-term value, not just closing deals.