Preventing Mold in New Construction (GEN) (HSW)

Florida CILB Course Approval Number: 0608016
AIA Approval Number J607BGS01

This course is designed to familiarize the learner with mold occurrence in new homes and review the biology of mold, health effects on humans and how to prevent its occurrence in new construction. Mold related health issues stand to cause as serious an economic impact on the US economy as have asbestos related issues and lead paint related issues. Mold has become so endemic that builder’s liability insurance and homeowner’s insurance policies severely limit insurance company exposure. Even states are limiting their own liability for failure to properly inspect homes to prevent conditions that contribute to mold propagation.

Upon successful completion of this course participants will be able to:

• Recognize the life cycle stages of mold and explain illnesses associated with exposure
• Compare old versus new construction techniques
• Indicate how moisture plays a role in mold development
• Describe prevention strategies and assess product installation recommendations
   

Bonnie Prinse

Ms. Prinse holds a BS Degree in Environmental Studies from Eckerd College and has pursued master degree studies in Aquatic Zoology at the University of South Florida. She has written scientific portions of impact statements for wetland/upland land delineation, endangered species studies, and water quality testing while employed with a civil engineering and architectural firm in Tampa, FL. Her experience in environmental studies and new construction lend itself to documentary film making, particularly environmental stories that have taken her to the Amazon in Peru and to Costa Rica. Most recently her involvement with earthen construction projects led to a video production showcasing the benefits of building “green.”