Ruptured Water Main Causes Property Damage & Mold Concerns in Sherman Oaks

In late April, the CBS affiliate in Los Angeles published a report about a ruptured water main that caused the closure of Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks. According to the article, at least four businesses were damaged as water entered buildings through low windows and from beneath the businesses.

Whether due to a broken water line or natural flooding, when water enters a structure it can damage or destroy furnishings, belongings and even cause structural damage in some circumstances.  If the water is allowed to stand for much time or wet materials are not quickly and thoroughly dried, mold can begin to appear in less than 48 hours.

“Unfortunately, the Los Angeles area has seen a number of water main breaks already this year that have resulted in damaged homes and businesses,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “When an event like this occurs, it is important to begin drying out the structure as soon as it is safe to do.  Even a minor delay can result in widespread mold growth that can cause health concerns for anyone in the building. The presence of mold can also dramatically increase the cost to have a property properly remediated.  Another indoor hazard to be aware of in these types of situations if they occur in older buildings is the potential presence of any materials that may contain asbestos or lead-based paints that could be disturbed during repair activities.”

LA Testing provides analytical services and sampling supplies to help identify mold and other microbial contaminants in addition to comprehensive lead and asbestos testing services.  The laboratory also recently sponsored an online video about flood cleanup and indoor air quality issues that can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Q1tnHFkPF0.

To learn more about testing for mold or other indoor air quality (IAQ) issues, please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794. 

About LA Testing
LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other substances.  In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC ELITE, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states.  LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Garden Grove, San Leandro and San Diego.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

LA Testing

(1) (856) 303-2503

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