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Mold causes property damage and can lead to negative medical conditions for the property's occupants.
Mold needs moisture to grow... high humidity, plumbing leaks and poor ventilation - even sprinklers hitting the side of a home - can all result in mold growth.
Mold testing is important since the way it is removed can vary depending on the type found... and visible mold growth in one area can sometimes indicate hidden mold growth in other areas.
The issue of toxic mold has caused confusion, concern and fear for property owners and real estate professionals alike, thanks to extensive media coverage and an increasing number of lawsuits, many of which have resulted in multi-million dollar settlements.
As with lead-based paint, radon and asbestos in previous decades, experts now recognize that mold is not some benign substance but is in fact an environmental hazard with potentially serious health ramifications.
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Health Implications
Molds can be found virtually everywhere on earth, and they have been around since the beginning of time. There are literally tens of thousands of mold types, the majority of which are harmless. However, exposure to certain molds can cause:
- recurring colds
- frequent headaches
- allergies and sinus problems
- asthma and shortness of breath
- fatigue, aches and mood swings
- a pet’s hair loss or lack of appetite
While everyone is at risk to some degree, those that are particularly vulnerable include infants, children, the elderly, pets and those with existing health issues. Unfortunately, there is no way to tell by looking at mold whether it is a dangerous type - testing is the only way to determine if a mold is toxic or harmless.
Property Damage
Mold requires two things to grow: moisture and a nutritional source. Nutrients can be just about any organic matter, including:
- wood (ceiling joists, foundation supports, hardwood floors, wall studs)
- fibers and textiles (carpet, clothing, drapes)
- cellulose-based products (drywall, pressboard, paper materials)
The enzymes produced by molds can break down these materials, often to the point where they must be replaced entirely. It is this process that can result in widespread property damage if mold is allowed to grow unchecked.
Why Test For Mold?
There are two reasons to test for mold, even if the mold is visible:
1. The methods for removing the mold will differ depending on the type of mold found. Dangerous molds require more strenuous remediation (removal) procedures to insure that spores don’t cross-contaminate other parts of the property
2. Finding visible mold is often an indication that hidden mold exists elsewhere in the property (like seeing only the tip of the iceberg). A certified mold inspector can identify the most likely areas for hidden mold and will test for active growth
Types of Mold Inspections
48-Hour Inspection and Appraisal offers several types of mold inspections to address any scenario:
- Full Mold Inspection An extensive assessment of a property's interior and exterior. Mold samples, if warranted and authorized by the client, are extra.
- MoldSweep Inspection Specifically designed for real estate transactions, this inspection includes a full mold inspection plus three mold samples.
- Limited Mold Inspection A mold inspection is conducted only within an area of concern. Mold samples, if warranted and authorized by the client, are extra.
- Clearance/Post-Cleaning Testing A critical final step to any mold remediation work is for samples to be taken by an independent company to ensure all traces of mold have been removed.
- Sampling We will take any samples you wish and submit them to our laboratory for analysis. You will be sent the results as soon as we receive them.
Selecting a Mold Inspector
Lots of companies and individuals have emerged claiming to be able to find and solve mold problems, many of which have very little training or experience. There is currently no licensing or regulation dealing with the inspection, testing or remediation (removal) of mold. Consequently, the consumer must be very careful about the professional they hire.
Important considerations for selecting a mold inspector should include:
- Proper Training It takes a great deal of training and experience to effectively inspect a property and to recognize possible warning signs that suggest the need for testing. Although some companies are offering mold testing in addition to their regular services (home inspectors, termite inspectors, plumbers, etc.), many of these companies have not invested in adequately training their personnel on the complexities of mold inspection. True mold inspection professionals receive extensive classroom education through accredited programs as well as thorough hands-on training by an Industrial Hygienist or other recognized expert in the industry.
- No Conflict Of Interest Quite a few of the companies that offer mold inspections also provide mold remediation (removal) services. There is an obvious conflict-of-interest if the same company that tests for mold is the company that will remediate the mold since that company then has a financial incentive to find mold. In fact, many of these mold remediation companies intentionally under price their inspection costs and make up for it by recommending unnecessary remediation. Always ensure that the company you hire to conduct a mold inspection only performs inspections and has no financial interest in finding mold; honest, unbiased results are the cornerstone to a quality mold inspection.
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or call (877) END-MOLD
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