Home inspectors frequently discover many dangerous conditions in crawlspaces. This is because unmonitored environments that can breed hazardous conditions when out of sight. Some common dangers include pests and the buildup of harmful gasses. Here are some hazards commonly found in crawlspaces:
Sewage and standing water – Dirt crawlspaces can become a cause for water damage. This can cause issues like the growth of bacteria, foul odors, and electrocution risk. Additionally, storing your belongings on a dirt floor can cause damage to them.
Fungus and Mold – As with other pests, rapidly growing mold and fungus can cause wood decay and health concerns. They can also grow quickly in close places, including in crawlspaces. Airborne mold spores can potentially enter the living space through a crawlspace. All mold produces allergens; these cause allergic reactions in some people. Additionally, it can produce irritants and potentially toxic mycotoxins. Mold can be inhaled or transferred by touch, and this can result in allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
The structure could collapse – Entering someone’s crawlspace can be dangerous if the home is unstable. It’s easy to become stuck, wedged, or even suffocated when entering an unstable crawlspace. Before entering the space, inform someone you’re planning on doing so.
Pests – Ants, termites, and other pest populations thrive in spaces with dirt crawlspaces. Termites can’t survive long outside mud tubes; this is why you may see them on foundation walls and piers. Carpenter ants and apparent signs of their presence should be considered when assessing a home’s structural integrity. They can cause structural damage if not adequately noticed. Additionally, pesticides may have been applied where there are carpenter ants; this is why you should wear protective gear when entering crawlspaces.

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