DeKalb Homeowner Disputes Mold After Restoration Work

By the MycoTest News Desk · Reviewed for accuracy by MycoTest's environmental testing specialists

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, leaving the homeowner caught in the middle of a difficult dispute. This case highlights a growing problem for American homeowners: what happens when repairs meant to fix damage end up creating new problems?

According to WSB-TV, the homeowner had restoration work completed on her property, but she claims mold growth appeared afterward and made her home unlivable. The restoration company maintains that their work was done properly and disputes any responsibility for the mold conditions. This type of disagreement is unfortunately common when homeowners deal with damage restoration and insurance claims.

Mold can develop quickly in homes that have experienced water intrusion from any source, including fire suppression efforts, flooding, or even humidity trapped during restoration work. When materials like drywall, insulation, or flooring are not fully dried before being sealed up, moisture can become trapped. This creates ideal conditions for mold growth within days or weeks.

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 → — $35

Why Disputes Happen After Restoration Work

Insurance disputes over home damage restoration are more common than many homeowners realize. When a home suffers fire, smoke, or water damage, the restoration process involves multiple steps. Each step must be done correctly for the repair to succeed. If corners are cut or moisture is not fully addressed, secondary problems like mold can appear weeks or months later.

The challenge for homeowners is proving what went wrong and when. Without independent documentation, it becomes a matter of their word against the restoration company's word. This is why experts recommend that homeowners take photos, keep all paperwork, and consider independent testing before, during, and after major restoration projects.

Georgia's Humidity Makes Mold a Constant Risk

Georgia's warm, humid climate creates elevated risk for mold growth in homes. The state regularly experiences high humidity levels, especially during summer months. When this natural moisture combines with any water intrusion from storms, leaks, or restoration work, mold can establish itself rapidly.

Homeowners in Georgia and other humid states should be particularly watchful after any work that involves water or moisture. This includes:

Fire damage restoration (due to water used to fight fires)
Flood cleanup and repairs
Roof repairs after storms
Plumbing repairs that involved water leaks
Any work where walls or floors were opened up

How to Protect Yourself in Damage Disputes

If you find yourself in a dispute with a restoration company or insurance provider, independent testing can provide crucial evidence. Unlike assessments from parties with a financial interest in the outcome, lab-certified test results from samples you collect yourself offer neutral, third-party documentation.

Here are steps homeowners can take to protect themselves:

Document everything: Take dated photos before, during, and after any restoration work
Keep all receipts and contracts: Save every piece of paperwork related to the damage and repairs
Get independent testing: Consider testing for contamination before signing off on completed work
Request moisture readings: Ask restoration crews to provide documented moisture readings showing materials are fully dry
Know your rights: Research your state's consumer protection laws regarding home repairs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can mold grow after fire damage restoration?

Yes. Water used to extinguish fires can soak into walls, floors, and insulation. If these materials are not completely dried before being sealed up during restoration, trapped moisture creates conditions where mold can grow within days or weeks.

How can I prove mold damage for an insurance claim?

Independent testing provides documented evidence that insurance companies and courts can verify. Collect surface samples from affected areas and send them to an accredited laboratory. The certified lab report shows exactly what was found and when the sample was collected.

What should I do if I suspect my restoration was done wrong?

Document your concerns with photos and written notes immediately. Contact the restoration company in writing to report the issues. Consider getting independent testing to verify whether contamination exists. If the company is unresponsive, contact your state's consumer protection office or consult with an attorney who handles construction disputes.

For homeowners dealing with smoke or fire damage, getting certified lab results can make all the difference when disputes arise. The MycoTest DIY Soot Test Kit allows you to collect surface samples yourself and receive accredited laboratory analysis, giving you independent documentation that holds up in insurance claims and legal proceedings.