A mold inspection is a detailed visual examination of the interior and exterior of a house for the presence of mold. It also includes testing the air for spores and looking inside ductwork, on walls, behind and in between walls and in other areas that can’t easily be seen.
A visual inspection is the most important part of a mold inspection. It is done by a trained professional using tools such as a moisture meter, a flashlight, a long stick with a flexible end, and sometimes an otoscope (a tool that looks like an ear scope).
When a person suspects that there may be mold in their house, they often hire a mold inspector to perform an inspection. A mold inspector should be licensed as a Mold Assessor or Microbial Investigator and have completed specific training in performing mold inspections. It is recommended that the person hiring a mold inspector get several quotes before deciding on one to ensure that they are getting a fair price. It is also recommended that the person hiring a mold inspector check the credentials of the inspector, including their ACAC council membership and any relevant certifications.
It is important to find a professional who has a strong desire to help people understand mold and its implications for their health and the safety of their family. It is also suggested that a person not use moonlighters, handy men or part time mold inspectors who are not certified. A full-time mold inspector is a much better choice because they can dedicate their entire working time to helping people understand and deal with this complex issue.
Some mold growth in houses can be normal, such as a type of tampa mold inspection called “Ceratosystis” or “Ophiostoma” which is commonly found growing on two by fours and other lumber in lumber yards. These types of molds are not considered to be toxic, but they do have a dark coloration and can stain wood. If this type of mold is found in a home, the inspector should recommend the mold be cleaned, and the source of the moisture should be corrected to prevent future growth.
Air samples are a good way to determine if there are unsafe levels of mold spores in the air, and what species of mold is present. The inspector should take at least three air samples, one outside the house for comparison, and two within the house.
These samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The lab results will tell the inspector what spores are present, and how much of each spore is found, which helps to determine the severity of the problem. The results can also be used to confirm that a mold remediation has been successful. The inspector will then provide his recommendations on next steps, or state that there is no concern for mold in the house.