If you’ve read our previous blogs regarding the New York State (NYS) Mold Bill such as Breaking Down The Mold Program and Compliance with the Mold Program, you’re probably familiar with what the bill does, but perhaps you are wondering why it was enacted.
Due to the extensive effects from the moisture and flooding that happened with 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, many people were left in desperate need of help to restore their homes. Unfortunately, some contractors took advantage of those in need and work was performed by untrained professionals putting people at risk of being exposed to Mold.
The Bill’s Preamble does a perfect job of explaining the need for the NYS Mold Bill so we will not attempt to paraphrase.
“Several months after Hurricane Sandy ravaged parts of New York with massive flooding, there is an increasing public health risk associated with mold growth in residential and commercial buildings. Mold exposure causes respiratory health problems and people, (especially children), with asthma are particularly vulnerable to illnesses from mold exposure. Mold can also sometimes cause even more serious health problems. Many people do not fully understand mold problems, the causes of mold in buildings, and the proper assessment and/or remediation when a mold problem exists. As a result, it is in the interest of the public safety and welfare to prevent future damage to real and personal property, minimize the public health risks posed by mold in public and private buildings, and avert economic injury to NYS residents by regulating persons and companies that hold themselves out to the public as qualified to perform mold-related services. This bill will ensure that the public is protected from unscrupulous contractors offering mold assessment and/or remediation and that licensed persons and/or businesses engaged in mold assessment and/or remediation will be properly trained.”
Whether you are a business owner, property manager, homeowner or renter, you should know what the NYS Mold Bill says when it comes to finding or suspecting mold in your home or property. Be sure that you ask to see the companies NYSDOL Mold Assessor License, if they do not show it to you, beware!
Head over to my page on the NYS Mold Bill for more information and to see my license.
PHOTO ABOVE:
STATEN ISLAND, NY – OCTOBER 30: Completely flooded basement next day after Hurricane Sandy on October 30, 2012 in Staten Island. There is a visible line showing maximum water level higher than 7 feet