When New Homes Harbor Hidden Mold

Brandy Thome
Jul 30
2 min read

What the FOX 13 Investigation Means for Florida Homeowners

Published by EnviroAir Systems | HVAC Mold Remediation & Inspection Experts

A recent FOX 13 News investigation [click to view], uncovered a troubling trend across Florida’s booming residential developments: newly constructed homes harboring mold within just a few years of move-in. For many homeowners in Starkey Ranch, a large Pasco County subdivision built by national home builder Taylor Morrison, this came as a shock.

But for us at EnviroAir Systems, it's a pattern we've seen far too often.

What’s Causing Mold in New Homes?

The investigation cited multiple underlying causes of mold growth in these homes, including:

Poor ventilation
Sweating ductwork
Gaps around A/C vents
Pinched or improperly installed ducts

One independent mold inspector interviewed by FOX 13, Brad Gatin, explained that condensation from ductwork was saturating drywall, leading to mold colonization. This kind of hidden moisture issue is particularly dangerous; it often goes unnoticed until health symptoms appear or expensive structural damage occurs.

Why HVAC Matters More Than You Think

Mold doesn’t just happen, it thrives in environments where humidity and air circulation are poorly managed. When HVAC systems are improperly installed or inadequately maintained, they can become the perfect breeding ground for mold.

At EnviroAir Systems, we specialize in identifying HVAC-related causes of mold in both new and existing homes. Our team of NADCA Certified professionals understands how system design, insulation, drainage, and ventilation all affect the indoor environment and long-term health of your home.

What Makes Us Different?

Most HVAC companies don’t focus on mold prevention. Most mold remediators don’t understand HVAC systems. We do both.

We take a healthcare approach to HVAC offering:

Certified HVAC inspections
Professional mold remediation with a focus on ductwork and air handlers
Third-party clearance testing to verify success

In fact, we’re the only HVAC company in Florida offering a 100% third-party clearance testing guarantee because you deserve verifiable results, not empty promises.

What Should Homeowners Do?

If you’ve recently moved into a new home; or even one built in the last 3–5 years, watch for signs of hidden mold:

Musty odors
High indoor humidity
Dust or black streaks near vents
Allergy or respiratory symptoms
Water spots on ceilings or walls

If you're unsure, don't wait. Schedule an HVAC Mold Inspection with EnviroAir Systems.

Learn More from an Industry Expert

Our co-founder, Christopher Thome, is a Certified Indoor Environmentalist Consultant (CIEC), and the author of HVAC Systems, Mold and the Indoor Environment, a comprehensive guide to understanding how indoor air quality is shaped by HVAC hygiene and design. His work bridges the gap between building science, mold remediation, and health outcomes; offering homeowners and professionals the tools to stay safe.

📞 Ready to take action? Call us at (813) 644-9261 to book a certified HVAC inspection consultation today.