New Home in Kennesaw or Acworth? Water, Fire & Mold Checks Before Move-In

Closing on a home in Kennesaw or Acworth is exciting. But before you unpack, it’s smart to make sure your new place isn’t hiding water damage, past fire issues, or mold.

A quick walk-through with the right checklist can save you thousands in repairs and a lot of stress later.

1. Start With a Few Questions

Before you move in, ask the seller or agent:

• Have there been any past leaks, floods, or pipe bursts?
  
  
• Were professional restoration companies used, or was it DIY?
  
  
• Any previous fire or smoke damage (even “small” kitchen fires)?
  
  
• Has there ever been mold discovered or remediated?
  
  
• How old are the roof, plumbing, and water heater?
  
  

If anything sounds vague or concerning, that’s a good time to bring in a restoration professional for a closer look.

2. Quick Water Damage Check: 15–20 Minutes

Walk the home and look for:

Basements & Crawl Spaces

• Musty or earthy odors
  
  
• Stained or crumbling foundation walls
  
  
• Sagging or discolored insulation
  
  
• Standing water or very damp soil
  
  

Bathrooms & Kitchen

• Soft or swollen wood under sinks
  
  
• Stains or soft spots around toilets
  
  
• Cracked or missing caulk around tubs and showers
  
  
• Buckled or cupped flooring near sinks, fridge, or dishwasher
  
  

Laundry & Water Heater

• Bulging or brittle washer hoses
  
  
• Rust or staining around the water heater base
  
  
• Water in the pan under the water heater (if it has one)
  
  

Attic & Roof (if safely accessible)

• Dark circles or rings on the underside of the roof
  
  
• Wet or flattened insulation
  
  
• Any signs of daylight shining through the roof where it shouldn’t
  
  

If you see active moisture, recent stains, or musty smells, there may be hidden damage inside walls or flooring.

3. Fire & Smoke Red Flags

Even a small fire can leave lingering issues.

Check for:

• Yellowing or smoky-looking ceilings or walls, especially in the kitchen
  
  
• Soot or heavy staining in and around the fireplace
  
  
• Strong smoke odor when you first walk in or when the HVAC turns on
  
  

Also make sure:

• Smoke alarms are installed and working on every level
  
  
• Dryer vent is clean and vents to the outside
  
  
• There’s at least one fire extinguisher near the kitchen
  
  

4. Simple Mold & Air Quality Check

Because our area is warm and humid much of the year, old moisture problems can quickly turn into mold.

Look for:

• Black, green, or white spots on bathroom ceilings, window sills, or around AC vents
  
  
• Peeling or bubbling paint on walls
  
  
• Persistent musty smell in certain rooms or closets
  
  

Consider a professional mold inspection if:

• The home has a known water damage history
  
  
• You see visible mold larger than a few small spots
  
  
• Anyone in your family has asthma, allergies, or other breathing issues
  
  

5. When To Call a Pro Instead of DIY

DIY is fine for small stains and minor caulking. Call a restoration company like Restoration 1 of NW Cobb if you notice:

• Large or spreading water stains
  
  
• Buckling hardwood or tile that’s lifting
  
  
• Strong musty odor you can’t track down
  
  
• Visible mold patches larger than a dinner plate
  
  
• Signs of past fire or smoke damage that were never professionally cleaned
  
  

Our team can:

• Use moisture meters and professional equipment to find hidden water damage
  
  
• Handle water removal, structural drying, fire and smoke cleanup, and mold remediation
  
  
• Help you understand what’s urgent, what can wait, and what it may cost
  
  
• Work with your insurance company if a claim is involved
  
  

We serve homeowners in Kennesaw, Acworth, and surrounding NW Cobb communities and are available 24/7 for emergencies.

Quick FAQs for New Homeowners

Do I need a separate mold inspection when I buy a home?
Not always. But if there’s a history of water damage, musty odors, or any visible mold, it’s smart to get one before moving in your belongings.

Can I move in if there was recent water damage?
Yes, but only after the source is fixed and the area has been properly dried and checked. Moving in too soon can trap moisture and lead to mold.

Is mold remediation covered by insurance?
Often yes when it’s tied to a sudden, covered water event (like a burst pipe). Mold from long-term leaks or poor maintenance usually isn’t. A restoration pro can help document the damage for your adjuster.

Need a Second Set of Eyes on Your New Home?

If you’re buying or just moved into a home in Kennesaw, Acworth, or nearby, and you’re worried about water, fire, or mold issues, Restoration 1 of NW Cobb is here to help.

We’ll give you an honest assessment and clear next steps so you can move in with confidence.