What Happens During a Mold Inspection?
Updated: Dec 27, 2020
A mold inspection consists of a visual assessment of a house. It is likely the mold inspector will have standard tools such as screwdrivers or instruments that gain him access to HVAC ducts or closed crawlspaces. Overall, it does not involve any particular equipment, aside from a reliable flashlight to brighten up an attic, cellar, or other dark space, a meter that measures moisture and a camera for the really tight spaces as well as to record his findings.
When the mold inspector inspects a property, he gathers as many details as possible from the property owner. This data is helpful in pinpointing areas that may cause reason for concern. For instance, anytime there has been water damage on the property, past or present, it should be conveyed to the mold inspector. This is important because it is possible that even when repairs are made, if a moisture issue is not resolved, it will be prone to mold growth.
The mold inspector will inspect areas of the property where moisture issues are commonly found, such as the bathrooms, kitchen, basement, attic, near hot water heaters, etc.
Whenever possible, the property owner should join the mold inspector during the process. The opportunity for a face-to-face conversation is beneficial for both parties. If the property owner is on the walk-through, he can point out specific areas that had past moisture problems and ask questions along the way, as well as gain a better understanding of mold. Likewise, if the inspector finds something of potential concern, an on the spot conversation may prove invaluable. He can make inquiries to the property owner, which may better explain an occurrence as well as point out findings. While the mold inspector will include any findings in his report, talking in person is helpful sometimes.
Also, should the mold inspector have reason to believe mold growth is present in a hidden area; he may remove a wall paneling or even hammer away a portion of drywall for a better look. Again, if the property owner is with him, he won’t be taken by surprise after the fact. The mold inspector takes every measure possible to avoid causing damage, however, he was hired to do an inspection, so he will do whatever is necessary to get the job done in the interest of the property owner.
Post Mold Inspection
If the results of a mold inspection reveal the presence of mold, a mold remediation plan must be implemented. Mold cannot be easily removed without following through all the steps of a professional mold remediation. Even when mold is removed, if the existing moisture is not properly cleared up and repairs made to prevent regrowth, the issue will not be completely eliminated.
It is possible to completely clean mold from hard surfaces, however for porous components including carpeting and upholstered furniture, they must be replaced. Upon the completion of your mold inspection, the inspector will offer advice on the next steps you should take.
Prevention is Possible
It is much more efficient to prevent mold rather than remove it. Take steps to keep your home in good order by repairing leaky pipes or plumbing fixtures and controlling the humidity in your home. This can be achieved with the installation of vents in the bathroom, changing filters on a regular basis and using dehumidifiers in basements if necessary.
If you encounter any flooding or water damage of any kind, make repairs and dry out the areas within 48 hours. Mold can begin growth with very limited moisture, when the climate is warm and there is a food source available. Remember mold is a fungus and it thrives on organic materials including debris, wood, carpet, leather, and even cardboard and drywall. Ridding your home of issues that would cultivate the production of mold should be fixed immediately. The cost and time required by responding quickly is minimal compared to everything that is involved in getting it removed.
How Is the Expense of a Mold Inspection Determined?
The cost of a mold inspection is based on two aspects, which include the square footage of a house and whether or not there was additional work and time involved in digging or removing drywall, crawlspace panels, or other encumbrances in order to complete the property inspection. Therefore, the larger the house, the more the inspection cost and if labor was required to gain access to potential problem areas via an “invasive” inspection, there will be additional fees as well.
What is the Average Cost of a Mold Inspection?
Oftentimes location can play a factor in the cost of a mold inspection, just as it can with any service. But overall, the price fluctuations of a mold inspection between different regions are usually minimal compared to the fees charged among the individual companies in the same location.
With that in mind, if you find yourself in the market for a mold inspection, take time to find out about the services offered and ask for price estimates. As mentioned previously, mold inspection fees are based on square footage of a house and the range of square footage is fairly generous. Below are rough estimates based of what you can most likely expect.
Small to medium house that is less than 4,000 square feet = between $400 and $550.
Medium to large house that is 4,000 square feet and above = between $600 and $900.
These estimates do not reflect any “invasive” inspection fees.
Rely on a Certified Mold Inspector
When it comes to the safety of your family and your home, finding the cheapest mold inspector does not always result in you getting the best deal.
In Albany, New York, a mold inspector must be licensed to legally inspect a home. This is for your protection. In addition to the required licensing, when you opt to choose an inspector that has years of experience and knowledge, you can be confident that he will be aware of all the places to inspect in your home. You’ll be happy that you hired the experts at Albany Mold.
