Mold Remediation in Osprey, FL

About Osprey

Osprey is an unincorporated community on the Intracoastal Waterway in southern Sarasota County, about 51 miles from Tampa. The historic Blackburn Point Bridge crosses the water here, and Historic Spanish Point and Oscar Scherer State Park are local landmarks. The population skews older, with a median age over 60.

Moisture sources in a coastal, humid place

Sarasota County calls flooding its most common and recurring natural disaster. Its Gulf location, flat terrain and subtropical climate bring coastal, riverine and urban flooding from heavy rain, tropical storms, hurricanes and storm surge. The county's Community Rating System coordinator can tell you about flood hazards and flood maps for a property.

Day to day, though, the bigger drivers are quieter:

• Air conditioners that short-cycle or have clogged drain lines, leaving the air handler closet wet
• Homes closed up for the summer with the AC turned off or set too high
• Roof leaks after tropical rain, soaking attic insulation
• Bathrooms without strong exhaust fans

The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County recommends air conditioning to keep indoor humidity below 60 percent. State DOH guidance says wet building materials and carpet should be dried within 24 hours, since common molds can take hold when water stands that long.

County offices that handle Osprey

Since Osprey is unincorporated, the Sarasota County Building Division in Planning and Development Services issues building permits, with offices at the Sarasota Operations Center and the R.L. Anderson Administration Center in Venice. If drywall, framing or flooring has to be rebuilt after remediation, check with the division about what needs a permit. Renters whose landlord hasn't fixed a leak or moisture problem can contact Sarasota County Code Enforcement.

The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County has an environmental health specialist who advises residents on indoor air problems, including mold. For personal health concerns, see a health professional; EPA notes mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs.

What to expect

The call puts you in touch with an independent company that serves Osprey. Explain where the growth is, roughly how large, and what you think caused it. If you're out of state for the season, say so, since a neighbor or property manager may need to provide access. Florida law, s. 468.8419, means the mold assessor who evaluates your home and the company that remediates it can't be the same business on that home within 12 months. Look up any license on DBPR's online search.