US Green Building Council
The US Green Building Council and its LEED program, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a good resource for solutions in improving indoor air quality and reducing negative impact in commercial and residential buildings. The project directory lists many certified buildings in commercial and residential use....
National Healthy Housing Standard
The National Center for Healthy Housing in partnership with the American Public Health Association has published the National Healthy Housing Standard, which offers evidence-based guidance in the advocacy for healthy dwellings....
Prevent Water Damage & Mold
Now is a good time to review buildings and perform preventative maintenance by examining building exteriors and existing gutters and downspouts for fatigue and damage. There is still time for replacement before weather conditions discourage exterior work. Repairing or replacing damaged roof materials and installing gutters and downspouts...
FEMA Flood Map Changes
Recent changes have been made to flood zones, potentially increasing property insurance requirements on mortgages. The Bangor Daily News published a piece on the changes and the impact on various geographical locations in Maine. Property owners are not always aware of the calculation used to...
Property Preparation
Preventing water damage loss is crucial in closing seasonal properties for the winter. Removing tree limbs around buildings, clearing gutters and drains, winterizing buildings and pools are all important items to address. Building interiors must be inspected to be certain windows, doors, and basement accesses...
Mold Information
There is a lot of misunderstanding and misinformation regarding mold. Reliable information from credible sources is reassuring and will prevent undue panic and alarm. The EPA publishes the following list on its website. Ten Things You Should Know About Mold Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold...
Insurance Statistics
The Maine Bureau of Insurance publishes a lot of information. Homeowner Insurance Complaint Comparisons will be helpful when property insurance is due to renew. United Policyholders offers good advice on purchasing insurance and making the most of potential discounts as well as information specific to each...
Rain Water Damage & Mold Prevention
Spring has been cold and rainy. Rain continues to be forecast and, if predictive weather patterns are correct, there is more rain to come. Home Guides has some good tips on enjoying screened porches in spite of the rain. Awnings and various window coverings will provide a...
Water Damage, Mold & Indoor Air Quality
Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory published an inclusive summary of building conditions that impact indoor air quality and human health. The information presented is familiar to us and is fundamental to our practice for water damage mitigation and mold remediation. It states that "approximately half of...
Natural Ventilation Passive Climate Control
The National Institute of Building Sciences publishes several interesting articles on building design. Natural ventilation is of particular interest in promoting a healthy indoor environment. Information on building design and materials as both pertain to insurance risk can be found here. Sustainable building with passive...