A DeKalb County, Georgia homeowner says she was forced to leave her home after mold developed following restoration repairs. The restoration company disputes her claims, highlighting a growing problem that many American homeowners face: what happens when damage repairs lead to new problems?
According to WSB-TV, the homeowner discovered mold in her residence after the restoration work was completed. She believes the repairs either failed to address underlying moisture issues or created conditions that allowed mold to grow. The restoration company maintains that their work met industry standards and disputes responsibility for the mold contamination.
This type of dispute is increasingly common across Georgia and other states where humidity, storm damage, and fire incidents require extensive home repairs. When restoration work involves water—whether from firefighting efforts, flood damage cleanup, or moisture remediation—the risk of secondary mold growth increases significantly if drying procedures are incomplete.
Not sure if your home is affected?
The DIY Soot Test Kit gives you certified, accredited-lab results in days — no inspector needed. Simple DIY sampling, mailed to a lab, clear results you can trust.
Confirm soot and smoke damage with a certified lab test → — $35Why Mold Develops After Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration
Fire damage restoration often involves significant water exposure. Firefighters use thousands of gallons of water to extinguish flames, and that water soaks into walls, floors, insulation, and other building materials. If these materials are not thoroughly dried within 24 to 48 hours, mold spores—which are naturally present in the environment—can begin to colonize the damp surfaces.
Smoke and soot contamination adds another layer of complexity. Porous materials that absorb smoke residue may need to be removed entirely. When contractors attempt to clean rather than replace these materials, hidden moisture pockets can remain trapped behind walls or under flooring.
Georgia's humid climate makes this problem even worse. DeKalb County and the greater Atlanta area experience high humidity levels for much of the year. Homes in this region are especially vulnerable to mold growth when moisture intrusion occurs.
Protecting Yourself During Insurance Disputes
The DeKalb case illustrates a frustrating reality: homeowners often find themselves caught between insurance companies and restoration contractors when problems arise. Both parties may deny responsibility, leaving the homeowner to deal with the consequences.
Experts recommend several steps to protect yourself:
- Document everything before and after restoration. Take photos and videos of all damage and all completed repairs.
- Request written moisture readings. Professional restoration companies should provide documentation showing moisture levels before and after drying procedures.
- Get independent testing. Do not rely solely on the restoration company's assessment. Independent lab testing can confirm whether contamination remains.
- Keep all communication in writing. Email exchanges create a paper trail that can be valuable if disputes escalate.
- Know your policy. Review your homeowner's insurance policy to understand what is covered and what documentation you need to file a claim.
The Importance of Independent Testing
One of the most valuable steps a homeowner can take—both before accepting completed restoration work and if problems develop later—is obtaining independent laboratory testing. This creates objective evidence that is not tied to any party in the dispute.
Surface testing can detect whether mold spores have settled on materials in your home. For fire and smoke damage situations, soot testing can confirm whether harmful residue remains on surfaces after cleanup. These test results provide documentation that can support insurance claims or legal action if needed.
MycoTest's state-by-state environmental hazard map shows elevated risk in Georgia due to the state's humidity levels and frequent storm activity. Homeowners in the region should be especially vigilant about moisture control after any type of water intrusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can mold grow after water damage from fire restoration?
Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure if materials are not properly dried. In humid climates like Georgia, this timeline can be even shorter. Prompt and thorough drying is essential to prevent mold colonization after any water intrusion event.
What should I do if I find mold after restoration work is completed?
Document the mold with photos and videos immediately. Contact your restoration company and insurance provider in writing to report the issue. Consider obtaining independent laboratory testing to create objective evidence of the contamination before any additional work is performed.
Can I test my home myself after fire or smoke damage?
Yes. DIY testing kits allow homeowners to collect surface samples and send them to accredited laboratories for analysis. This provides independent documentation that is not connected to the restoration company or insurance adjuster, which can be valuable in dispute situations.
If you are dealing with fire, smoke, or water damage restoration—or if you suspect problems developed after repairs were completed—independent testing gives you the documentation you need. MycoTest's DIY Soot Test Kit provides certified lab results you can trust, with simple at-home sampling and clear documentation for insurance purposes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. MycoTest DIY kits are screening tools. For confirmed contamination, consult a certified environmental professional.
Sources
WSB-TV Atlanta — DeKalb homeowner says mold forced her from home after restoration repairs; company disputes claims (July 2026)
