Kitchen Renovation Exposed Mold Growth in Corona Del Mar

Project Overview

A Corona Del Mar homeowner recently purchased a three-story coastal single-family home and retained Guaranteed Property and Mold Inspection to conduct a comprehensive mold and moisture assessment before moving in. The property had sustained water damage across all three levels from multiple sources, much of it hidden behind walls and beneath flooring. Joseph Gutierrez, GPMI’s ACAC-certified inspectors, with over 22 years of experience in mold inspection and environmental testing, were brought in to document the full scope of contamination and identify every active moisture source driving mold growth throughout the home.

Concerns About Mold and Moisture Issues

The clients noticed a musty odor on the lower level, soft spots in the flooring, and discoloration along wall bases near windows — signs that water had been entering the home long before they took ownership. Coastal properties face elevated moisture risk year-round, and when building systems fail, mold can spread silently inside walls and structural assemblies.

Mold Growth On Wall In Coastal Home’s Lower Level Due To Roof Leak Image Title: Mold Damage In Lower Level Of Coastal Home
Close-Up Of Mold Spreading Along Corner Of Wall From Plumbing Leak Image Title: Mold Spreading Along Wall From Plumbing Leak
Visible Mold Damage From Window Failure In Coastal Home Image Title: Mold Damage Near Window In Coastal Home
Mold Contamination On Walls And Flooring From Roof Leak In Coastal Property Image Title: Mold Damage From Roof Leak In Coastal Property
Mold Growth On Walls In Bathroom Area Due To Plumbing Failure Image Title: Mold In Bathroom Due To Plumbing Failure
Significant Mold And Water Damage In Coastal Home Due To Roofing Issues Image Title: Mold Damage From Roofing Failure In Coastal Home
Mold Accumulation In Corner Of Coastal Home’s Bathroom Image Title: Mold In Bathroom Corner Of Coastal Home

The clients needed:

  • Certified identification of all mold-affected areas across all three levels
  • Documentation of each water intrusion source contributing to mold growth
  • A professional report to direct remediation contractors
  • Assurance the home was safe to occupy after remediation

Our Mold Testing and Inspection Process

Joseph conducted a systematic assessment of all three levels, focusing on each identified water intrusion point. Using thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, and visual documentation, the mold inspection was designed to locate hidden mold inside walls, subfloor assemblies, and structural framing.

Findings included:

  • Active mold growth on subfloor materials and wall framing at the lower level
  • Moisture damage along window frames and sliding glass door thresholds
  • Roof waterproofing failure, allowing water intrusion into upper-level assemblies
  • Mold migration patterns are consistent with a plumbing leak from the upper bathroom, traveling downward through multiple levels

Resolution & Results

Air and surface samples were submitted to an accredited laboratory for analysis, confirming elevated mold concentrations consistent with long-term water intrusion. The clients received a detailed report with lab results, thermal imaging data, and annotated photographs documenting all affected areas. This moisture assessment gave remediation contractors a clear, sequenced scope of work.

If you’ve purchased a coastal property and suspect hidden water damage, Guaranteed Property and Mold Inspection provides certified, independent documentation to protect your investment and your health.

Contact us at (949) 239-3727 for professional mold l inspections and testing that delivers the answers and peace of mind you need.

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If you suspect there may be a mold issue, don't hesitate to call us or schedule an inspection today!

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