Common Englewood housing and its moisture weak spots

Housing type
Postwar brick bungalow or ranch
Typical moisture issues
Old foundation walls, short downspouts, original or patched plumbing
Where mold appears
Basement walls, under kitchen and bath, around old windows
Housing type
Home with a basement finished later
Typical moisture issues
Finishes added over unsealed foundation walls
Where mold appears
Behind paneling or drywall on exterior walls, under carpet
Housing type
Small apartment building
Typical moisture issues
Shared plumbing stacks, older roofs, limited ventilation
Where mold appears
Bathrooms, units below leaks, laundry rooms
Housing type
Newer infill or rebuilt home
Typical moisture issues
Construction moisture, grading next to older neighbors
Where mold appears
Basement corners, around new window wells

Older homes, tighter lots

Much of Englewood was built in the decades after World War II, and many of those homes have had basements finished, kitchens and baths updated and systems replaced at different times. Mold commonly hides behind basement paneling installed directly against foundation walls, under bathrooms where the floor has seen years of small leaks, and around older windows that sweat in winter.

Lots are smaller than in Cherry Hills Village, so a neighbor's grading, downspouts or irrigation can send water toward your foundation. Areas closer to Little Dry Creek or the South Platte may have wetter soils in places. Check the drainage pattern on all sides of the house, including along the property line.

Renters and landlords

Rentals are common in Englewood, and mold problems go better when both sides act quickly and in writing.

  • Tenants: report leaks, persistent condensation and musty smells in writing, with photos and dates.
  • Tenants: avoid scrubbing or painting over growth; ask for an inspection instead.
  • Landlords: respond promptly and find the moisture source before cosmetic repairs.
  • Landlords: keep records of inspections, repairs and remediation for each unit.
  • Both: review the lease and Colorado's residential habitability law, which addresses mold, and seek legal advice for disputes.

Questions to ask in an older Englewood home

  1. Has anyone tested for asbestos in old flooring, ceiling texture or pipe insulation before it is disturbed?
  2. Is lead paint a consideration on older windows and trim being removed?
  3. Do the downspouts discharge far enough from the foundation?
  4. Does the City of Englewood require a permit for the planned repairs?
Map of Englewood. It shows an area, not an office or a job site.

Common questions

Is basement paneling a sign of hidden mold?
Not necessarily, but paneling installed directly against a foundation wall with no insulation or air gap is a common spot for growth on the back side. A musty smell near paneled walls is worth a moisture check.

General information for Cherry Hills Village, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.