Mold is something you should definitely consider a potentially serious issue. From my personal experience: About three years ago, my wife and I moved into a recently remodeled rental. Within a week, my wife was having chest pains and trouble breathing. Gradually it got worse, and she went to several doctors including an allergy specialist. None were sure what was causing the problem but mold was given as one possible cause. We didn’t really think there was mold, the house was in good shape. But when I climbed under the house, I found mold growing in the crawl space. Not a lot, but enough. Ultimately we had to move out and break the lease. Three years later, my wife’s health has improved significantly, but her breathing is not what it was before this experience.
So, when my wife and I found a house we were serious about, we had the house thoroughly tested for mold. Like many older houses, some was found. (In the kitchen under the sinks) After a good bit of deliberation, we decided to go ahead and buy the house and do the remediation. It cost us about nine grand to have the cabinets taken out, the walls opened up, and everything cleaned, reinspected and then put back.
After living there for about four months I can tell you that my wife is not suffering from mold in our new house.
So, a couple points:
1) Mold issues can be remediated. It might cost some money, but it can be done. (And be sure to see what other posters said would be needed,)
2) Many places do have mold, so don’t be surprised to find it in a house.
3) Failing to deal with mold issues can have serious medical consequences. (Some people are fine with mold, others are not.)
4) Use contractors who know what they are doing.
In the end, if you look for moisture/mold, and address the issue, you’ll probably end up with a healthy mold free house. If you don’t you run the risk of causing yourself or your family a lot of problems.
