Homeowners are encouraged to take measures to prevent mold growth in homes that sustained damage during last week’s storms. Dehumidifiers and fans can be used to dry down wood and walls to 11 to 13 percent moisture. This process can take weeks to get to the proper moisture. 

If wetness occurred because of leaking roofs, look for wet electrical circuits, wet insulation and other water damage to the interior of the structure. Once insulation becomes wet in a wall or attic, it must be replaced. Wall insulation that is sealed within the structure will not dry out before mold develops. 

More information on home repairs following water damage, whether from flood or storm can be found in the publication, Storm Recovery Guide (SP 327), available through the Iowa State University Extension website:  www.extension.iastate.edu/store . 

Hiring Contractors After a Disaster, another document available through ISU Extension, provides information on finding a reliable contractor. This and other resources can be found under the Clean Up tab on the Dealing with Disasters page of the website at www.extension.iastate.edu/topic/recovering-disasters.  The document includes a checklist to help homeowners evaluate up to three different contractors. 

“Homeowners are reminded to never sign a completion certificate until all work is satisfactorily done,” said Linda Fischer, ISU Extension regional director.  “Also, never pay a home repair contractor or worker for work before it is done. Not more than 25 to 33 percent of the expected cost should be paid for up front. Do not use contractors that have high-pressure ‘sign up now’ discounts and make sure that any assumptions are clear and accurate.”

More information on dealing with disasters can be found at your county extension office or on the ISU Extension website at:  www.extension.iastate.edu/topic/recovering-disasters.

For information about hiring contractors following a disaster