DeKalb Homeowner Disputes Restoration Work as Mold Forces Her Out

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 appeared following restoration repairs. The restoration company disputes her claims, highlighting a growing problem that affects thousands of American homeowners each year: what happens when fire or smoke damage repairs go wrong?

The case shines a light on the complicated relationship between homeowners, insurance companies, and restoration contractors. When smoke damage occurs, homeowners often trust that professional repairs will restore their property to safe conditions. But disputes can arise when secondary problems like mold growth appear after the work is done.

According to the homeowner's account, mold developed in her home after the restoration company completed repairs. She claims the conditions became so severe that she could no longer live in the property. The restoration company, however, disputes these claims. This type of disagreement is more common than many homeowners realize.

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Why Smoke Damage Can Lead to Mold Problems

Smoke damage and mold growth are more connected than many people think. When firefighters put out a fire, they use large amounts of water. This water soaks into walls, floors, and ceilings. If the property is not dried out properly and quickly, mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours.

Smoke residue also creates another problem. Soot particles can settle deep into building materials where they are hard to see. If restoration crews do not clean these areas thoroughly, the leftover contamination can cause ongoing issues. Homeowners may not notice problems until weeks or months after repairs are finished.

How to Protect Yourself During Restoration

The DeKalb case offers important lessons for any homeowner dealing with fire or smoke damage. Documentation is your best protection. Here are steps you can take:

Take photos and videos before, during, and after all repair work
Get everything in writing from your restoration company, including what work will be done and what materials will be used
Request moisture readings before walls are closed up to confirm the space is dry
Consider independent testing to verify that smoke residue and soot have been properly removed
Keep all receipts and contracts in case disputes arise later

When Insurance Claims Get Complicated

Insurance disputes over restoration quality can drag on for months or even years. The homeowner may believe the work was not done correctly. The contractor may insist they followed proper procedures. The insurance company may question whether new damage is related to the original claim.

In these situations, having independent test results can make a big difference. Lab-certified documentation of smoke residue, soot contamination, or mold presence gives homeowners solid evidence to support their claims. Without this proof, disputes often come down to one person's word against another.

Georgia Homeowners Face Extra Challenges

Georgia's humid climate makes mold growth especially likely after water damage from firefighting efforts. The combination of warm temperatures and high moisture creates ideal conditions for mold to spread quickly. Homeowners in DeKalb County and throughout the Atlanta area should be extra careful about verifying that their homes are fully dried before restoration work is finished.

State law does not require restoration contractors to be licensed specifically for mold remediation. This means homeowners must do their own homework when choosing a company. Checking references, reading reviews, and asking about the company's drying and testing procedures can help you avoid problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my home still has smoke damage after restoration?

Smoke residue can hide in places you cannot see, like inside walls or in HVAC ducts. If you notice lingering odors, discoloration on surfaces, or respiratory irritation when inside the home, smoke damage may still be present. A surface sampling test can detect soot particles that remain after cleaning.

Can I dispute restoration work if mold appears after repairs?

Yes. If mold develops after fire or smoke damage repairs, you may have grounds to file a complaint with your insurance company or take legal action against the contractor. Document the mold with photos and testing results. Contact your insurance adjuster and explain that secondary damage occurred after the restoration.

How long after a fire can mold start growing?

Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. Since firefighting efforts often involve large amounts of water, the risk of mold is high after any fire. Proper drying of the structure should happen immediately after the fire is extinguished and before restoration work begins.

If you are dealing with smoke damage or suspect contamination after restoration work, the MycoTest DIY Soot Test Kit can help you get certified lab results to document your situation. Having independent proof of contamination gives you leverage when working with insurance companies or disputing contractor work.