In some parts of the country, primarily in the West, this is the time of the year when green lawns turn to brown on foreclosed properties due to lack of precipitation, But, according to this NPR report, in other areas where rain is fairly regular, another problem exists – mold.

As huge numbers of foreclosed homes continue to work their way through the real estate pipeline, another problem is blossoming — mold.

In most homes, as residents go in and out and the seasons change, natural ventilation sucks moisture up to the attic and out through the roof. It’s called the “stack effect.” And in many parts of the country, it’s driven by air conditioning in the summer and heat in the winter.

But no one is going in or out of most foreclosed homes — regardless of climate — and the effects can be devastating.

In some states, it’s estimated that more than half of foreclosed homes have mold and mildew issues. Realtors across the country say they’re seeing the problem in everything from bungalows to mansions.

Bob Bennett runs Farsight Management in northeastern Ohio, specializing in cleaning up water-damaged buildings.

A full quarter of his work now comes from moldy, foreclosed homes where the electricity has been shut off. No electricity means no sump pump or dehumidifier for months, even years, and that often means mold — slimy black or green patches creeping up drywall and blanketing bathroom fixtures.

Well, at least the ongoing foreclosure crisis is creating work for somebody…