Borrowing from my son, the psychology major, hoarding is not an issue we as engineers can or should do anything about, unless the hoarding overloads the building and creates a direct structural threat. Even if it contributes to the mold growth, that is not our issue...only that we should report the mold issue. Hoarding is a mental disorder that can be variously defined and there is not always a clear line between hoarding and clutter. Mentioning the term "hoarding" in any correspondence might open you to more liability than you want. If the person does not have a diagnosed hoarding disorder, then you have stigmatized that person to the public (a building official is a public office). Not good!
As for the mold issue, you should report it as a health concern, but be careful of your wording. I would use something like.....
"Mr./Ms. Building Official.
I am currently providing structural consulting services for the Jones Residence located at 123 Main Street, Anytown. In providing my structural consulting, I noticed what appears to be an inordinate amount of mold growth in the residence, presumably in the wall cavity, but clearly showing evidence of migration to the interior of the residence.
My firm does not provide mold consulting and we are not mold experts; however, in the normal course of our business we have a working knowledge of mold and some of its concomitant issues. As such, I feel it is my professional duty as a licensed engineer practicing under the laws of this state, to bring this to your attention. It is my opinion that a full mold assessment be done by a licensed mold specialist in an effort to protect the health of the occupants. Further action might be indicated from your office, including but not limited to temporary condemnation, depending on the findings of the mold specialist. I ask that you, in the discharge of your professional duties, put the owner on notice that such an assessment must be done."
