Presidents' Day Home Inspection: A Comprehensive Mold and Moisture Checklist

Presidents' Day weekend offers the perfect opportunity for a comprehensive home inspection. With a three-day weekend, you have time to thoroughly check every area of your home for moisture problems and mold risks—issues that, if caught early, can save you thousands in remediation costs.

This isn't just busywork. According to restoration industry data, the average mold remediation project costs between $1,500 and $9,000, with extensive infestations reaching $30,000 or more. A few hours of inspection now could save you significant money—and protect your family's health.

Before You Begin: What You Need

Gather these supplies before starting your inspection:

• Flashlight (for dark areas like crawlspaces and attics)
• Hygrometer or moisture meter
• Notebook or phone for documentation
• Screwdriver (for accessing panels)
• Step ladder
• N-95 mask (if entering potentially moldy areas)

Good documentation is essential. Take photos of anything suspicious, note locations and dates, and keep records of any moisture readings. This information is valuable whether you're handling issues yourself or hiring professionals.

Exterior Inspection

Start outside before moving indoors. Many interior moisture problems originate from exterior issues.

Roof and Gutters

• ✓Check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• ✓Look for debris accumulation in valleys
• ✓Inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
• ✓Clean gutters of winter debris
• ✓Verify downspouts extend 4-6 feet from foundation
• ✓Look for ice dam damage from winter

Foundation and Grading

• ✓Check that soil slopes away from foundation (6 inches in 10 feet)
• ✓Look for cracks in foundation walls
• ✓Inspect window wells for proper drainage
• ✓Check exterior caulking around windows and doors
• ✓Look for efflorescence (white mineral deposits) on foundation—indicates moisture

Exterior Walls

• ✓Inspect siding for damage, gaps, or deterioration
• ✓Check for peeling paint (often indicates moisture behind walls)
• ✓Look at trim around windows and doors for rot
• ✓Verify exterior outlets and fixtures are properly sealed

Attic Inspection

The attic is critical—it's where many hidden moisture problems develop, especially after winter.

• ✓Check for daylight coming through roof (indicates potential leak paths)
• ✓Look for staining on roof sheathing
• ✓Inspect for frost or moisture on underside of roof
• ✓Verify insulation is dry and evenly distributed
• ✓Check that bathroom and kitchen vents exhaust outside, not into attic
• ✓Look for signs of animal intrusion (nesting materials, droppings)
• ✓Inspect around any penetrations (plumbing vents, electrical, chimney)

If you see black staining on the roof sheathing, don't panic—it could be old water damage or current mold growth. The key is determining whether the source of moisture has been fixed.

Basement and Crawlspace

Basementelow-grade spaces are the most common locations for mold growth due to their natural tendency toward higher humidity.

Basement Checklist

• ✓Check walls for water stains, efflorescence, or damp spots
• ✓Inspect floor/wall joint for moisture intrusion
• ✓Test sump pump operation (pour water in to activate)
• ✓Look behind stored items and furniture against walls
• ✓Check humidity level (should be below 50%)
• ✓Inspect water heater for leaks or corrosion
• ✓Check HVAC equipment, especially condensate lines
• ✓Look for musty odors, even without visible mold

Crawlspace Checklist

Crawlspaces require extra caution. Wear an N-95 mask and old clothes, and bring a bright flashlight.

• ✓Check for standing water or damp soil
• ✓Inspect vapor barrier for tears or gaps
• ✓Look at floor joists and subfloor for staining or mold
• ✓Check for proper ventilation
• ✓Inspect insulation for moisture damage
• ✓Look for pest intrusion

Room-by-Room Interior Inspection

All Rooms

• ✓Check for musty odors
• ✓Look at ceilings for stains (especially below bathrooms)
• ✓Inspect around windows for condensation damage
• ✓Check baseboards for warping or discoloration
• ✓Look behind furniture against exterior walls

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are high-moisture environments requiring special attention.

• ✓Test exhaust fan operation
• ✓Check caulk around tubs, showers, and sinks
• ✓Inspect under sinks for leaks
• ✓Look at toilet base for water damage to flooring
• ✓Check grout for deterioration or mold
• ✓Inspect tile for loose pieces (can indicate water behind wall)

Kitchen

• ✓Check under sink for leaks or moisture
• ✓Inspect dishwasher connection and floor around it
• ✓Look behind and under refrigerator
• ✓Test garbage disposal for leaks
• ✓Check ice maker line if applicable

Laundry Area

• ✓Inspect washing machine hoses for bulges or cracks
• ✓Check dryer vent for proper exterior exhaust
• ✓Look for moisture around washer
• ✓Verify floor drain operation if present

HVAC System

HVAC systemng and cooling system can either help or hurt indoor air quality. A contaminated system spreads mold spores throughout your entire home.

• ✓Check filter condition—replace if dirty
• ✓Inspect visible ductwork for moisture or staining
• ✓Verify condensate drain is clear (pour water through to test)
• ✓Look at supply and return registers for dust buildup or mold
• ✓Check outdoor unit for debris

What to Do If You Find Problems

Document everything you find with photos, notes on location, and measurements if possible. Then prioritize:

1. Active water intrusion: Address immediately—water damage becomes mold damage within 24-48 hours
2. Visible mold: Assess size and location. Small areas (under 10 sq ft) may be DIY; larger areas need professionals
3. High humidity: Set up dehumidification and identify moisture sources
4. Suspicious odors without visible mold: Consider professional testing
5. Maintenance items: Schedule repairs before minor issues become major

Creating a Maintenance Calendar

Use your inspection findings to create a year-round maintenance calendar:

• Monthly: Check humidity levels, inspect under sinks, test sump pump
• Quarterly: Change HVAC filters, check bathroom caulk, clean dryer vent
• Semi-annually: Clean gutters, inspect attic and crawlspace
• Annually: Professional HVAC service, roof inspection

When Professional Help Is Needed

Some discoveries warrant professional assessment:

• Mold growth exceeding 10 square feet
• Mold in HVAC system
• Evidence of long-term water damage
• Structural concerns from moisture damage
• Health symptoms among household members

Our Find a Pro directory connects you with qualified mold inspectors and remediators, and our contractor vetting guide helps ensure you hire someone trustworthy.

Make It an Annual Tradition

Consider making this Presidents' Day inspection an annual tradition. Catching problems early means simpler fixes and lower costs. Plus, regular inspections give you peace of mind knowing your home is healthy and well-maintained.

Download our printable checklist and start your inspection today. Your home—and your family—will thank you.