DeKalb Mold Dispute Shows Why Homeowners Need Proof

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. According to WSB-TV, the restoration company disputes her claims. This case highlights a growing problem for American homeowners: what happens when you suspect mold, but the company responsible says there is no issue?

Disputes like this one are more common than many people realize. After water damage from storms, floods, or plumbing leaks, homeowners often hire restoration companies to dry out and repair their properties. But when mold appears later, proving who is responsible can be difficult. The homeowner says one thing. The company says another. Without clear evidence, these disagreements can drag on for months or even years.

For homeowners in Georgia and across the country, this case serves as a warning: documentation matters. If you suspect mold in your home, having independent proof can make all the difference in an insurance claim or legal dispute.

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Why Mold Disputes Happen After Restoration Work

When water damages a home, the clock starts ticking. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. Restoration companies are supposed to fully dry the affected areas and remove damaged materials. But sometimes hidden moisture gets left behind — inside walls, under flooring, or in crawl spaces.

Weeks or months later, the homeowner notices a musty smell or spots on the walls. By then, the restoration company may have moved on to other jobs. They may argue that the mold came from a different source, or that the homeowner caused the problem by not running the air conditioning or keeping windows closed.

Georgia's humid climate makes this problem worse. The state sees high humidity for much of the year, and homes in the Atlanta metro area are especially prone to moisture issues. Without proper documentation from day one, homeowners can find themselves in a frustrating battle.

How to Protect Yourself in a Mold Dispute

If you have had water damage or restoration work done on your home, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:

Take photos and videos before, during, and after any restoration work. Document visible damage and repairs.
Keep all paperwork from the restoration company, including contracts, invoices, and any written promises about their work.
Get independent testing if you suspect mold. Do not rely only on the restoration company's assessment. A third-party test gives you proof that is harder to dispute.
Act quickly if you see signs of mold. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove when the mold started growing.

Insurance companies often want clear evidence before they will pay for mold remediation. A certified lab result from an independent test can strengthen your claim and show that the mold is real.

The Value of Independent Mold Testing

When a homeowner and a company disagree about mold, each side may hire their own experts. But a test done by the homeowner before any dispute arises carries weight. It shows you were proactive and documented the problem as soon as you found it.

Surface sampling kits allow homeowners to collect samples from visible mold or from areas where they suspect growth. These samples are sent to an accredited lab, which provides a report showing what types of mold are present. This report can be shared with insurance adjusters, attorneys, or restoration companies.

For Georgia homeowners dealing with the aftermath of water damage, independent testing is a smart step. The state's combination of humidity, older housing stock, and frequent severe weather creates ongoing mold risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue a restoration company for mold?

You may have legal options if a restoration company failed to properly dry your home and mold resulted. Consult with an attorney who handles construction or property disputes. Having independent test results that document the mold can strengthen your case.

Does homeowners insurance cover mold damage?

It depends on your policy and the cause of the mold. Many policies cover mold if it resulted from a covered event like a burst pipe, but may exclude mold from long-term neglect or flooding. Check your policy and document everything with photos and test results.

How do I know if mold is growing behind my walls?

Signs include a musty odor, visible water stains, peeling paint, or warped drywall. If you had recent water damage and notice these signs, testing surfaces in the affected area can help confirm whether mold is present.

If you are dealing with a mold dispute or simply want peace of mind after water damage, the MycoTest DIY Mold Test Kit gives you certified lab results you can trust. Simple surface sampling, mailed to an accredited lab, with clear results delivered in days.