Frequently Asked Questions

mold-inspection-faq

  1. What is a mold inspection?

    We inspect the home, starting outside, and then working our way inside from bottom to top. During this visual inspection we are looking for places that moisture has or can intrude on the home. Then we take photo’s, temperature and humidity readings in each area as we go through the home and air quality samples outside (control sample) and at least one on each level of the home. If there is a room or specific area that is suspect then air samples in those areas will be taken as well as tape or swab samples of any visible molds. In some cases it may be necessary to take a sample from a wall cavity, in this instance a small hole is made in the drywall, otherwise the inspection is non-invasive.

  2. What is the inspector looking for?

    We are searching for areas that have poor humidity control, excess condensation or water intrusion. We also identify areas with visible fungal growth, water damage, poor ventilation excess organic matter (dust or dander). Mold needs moisture to grow. Moisture control is achieved through adequate control of moisture or humidity in the house.

  3. Do you do your own laboratory analysis?

    Absolutely not! We use third party independent and qualified laboratories in Canada and the United States. Unless a consultant is a qualified mycologist they should not be doing their own lab work.

  4. Do I get a written report?

    Yes, we discuss the report as we are performing the inspection, then we ship the samples to the lab for analysis, once this report has come back from the lab we will arrange an appointment to go over the results with you we will leave a written report with you at this time. Typically these results take 5 to 7 business days to come back.

  5. Do I need to be there when the inspection happens?

    We really prefer that the person in the home the most is available at the time of the inspection. They may have observations or concerns that can be discussed at the time of the inspection.

  6. How long does the inspection take?

    To complete a proper home inspection, with all of your questions answered and tests taken, you can expect a typical single family home to take 2 to 3 hours, for condo’s or specific area inspections 1 to 2 hours. As with any inspection, if conditions are obvious, it will go quickly, if conditions are more complicated, then more time may be needed.

  7. What type of equipment does the mold inspector use?

    • Digital camera - documents areas of concern
    • Air sampling equipment - to test for interior and exterior mold spore counts
    • Tape and swab sampling supplies - to confirm areas of mold growth and identify mold type
    • Moisture meter - to identify wet areas on the surface or behind walls
    • Thermometer - to measure relative humidity and temperature

  8. Do you do mold removal?

    No. We are independent consultants only. This way we can also perform the clearance testing to ensure the mold was removed properly.

  9. How do we pay for our inspection?

    Payment can be made by cash or cheque. You will receive a receipt and an explanation of the costs at the conclusion of the inspection. We cover the costs of the lab testing; provide quality control and documentation in our fees.

  10. Can we clean the mold ourselves?

    Physically disturbing the mold will case the spores to spread, this could contaminate areas that currently have no mold problems. In some cases household cleaners can make the mold problem worse. We strongly recommend caution be used in all instances.

    Note: CMHC and the EPA have guidelines for DIY projects of this type. As per these guidelines, we do not recommend untrained individuals to perform remediation on contaminated areas larger than 10 square feet. If the area is larger than 10 square feet or if you have tried cleaning it yourself and the odor persists or mold re-appears in a few days or weeks, you need a professional.

  11. Can mold cause health problems?

    Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens, irritants and in some cases, potentially toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold. Research on mold and health effects is ongoing. This is only a brief overview; it does not describe all potential health effects related to mold exposure. For more detailed information, consult a health professional.