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What is Mold Inspection and Testing?
Mold inspection and testing is the process of detecting mold in your home. In some cases, mold tests also determine what kind it is, such as black mold. In most cases, a mold test is not required if you can see mold. However, some states have regulations about mold testing and inspections to prevent fraud and keep consumers safe. If you’re concerned about a mold issue, call Restoration 360 now for mold detection near you.
How Much Does a Mold Inspection Cost?
A home mold inspection costs between $300 and $900 based on the size of your home. However, there are several factors that determine the total cost of mold detection. Your technician will explain the process and provide a free mold testing estimate in advance.
What Affects the Cost of a Mold Inspection?
There are three factors that determine the cost of a home mold inspection:
Size of Your Home:
Invasiveness of the Inspection:
Type of Testing Needed:
The cost of mold testing will depend on the tests needed. Tape and swab tests are less expensive than bulk testing or culturing.
Do I Need a Mold Inspection?
As long as you see mold, you do not need mold testing or inspection unless it’s required in your area. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary.” However, an inspection can identify a problem if you are concerned you have a problem but do not see mold.
Since the removal process is the same for all kinds of mold, mold inspection and testing will only cost more and delay the cleanup process. For that reason, we offer a free visual mold check-up as part of our estimate for mold remediation. If our specialists see mold, you can decide whether to move forward with testing or skip to removal.
Can I Use a Home Mold Testing Kit?
While you can use a home mold testing kit, they are extremely unreliable. Since mold spores are all around us, it’s likely that they will contaminate the testing container. In most cases, all home test kits return inconclusive results. If you are worried you have mold but cannot see it, an independent mold inspection is the best option.
How to Get a Free Mold Inspection?
Restoration 360 offers free visual mold inspections when we provide an estimate for mold removal services. Although our free mold check-up does not include lab tests, our mold detection specialists are trained to find problems. After they check your home, they will let you know if you need further mold testing.
What are the Types of Mold Tests?
There are several tests used to detect a mold problem. Regardless of the type of test, samples are analyzed to identify the concentration of mold in the air and the amount of mold growing in your home. Unfortunately, mold contamination is rarely consistent. As a result, each sample or test could return a different level of concentration.
Air Quality Tests:
Surface Tests:
Mold surface tests use swabs or tape to collect samples from hard surfaces like walls and cabinets. This test will determine the extent of your mold problem. However, they are usually done on surfaces that already show visible signs of mold growth. Since you can already see the problem, this kind of test is only necessary when you need scientific proof of mold.
Bulk Testing:
Culture Tests:
Culture tests are done alongside other mold tests to determine the exact kind of mold you have. Although a culture test is required in some cases, knowing the type of mold doesn’t change how it is removed.
When is a Mold Inspection Necessary?
If You Have Signs of Mold, but Don’t See It:
You should have an inspection if you have signs of mold but cannot see any. This includes musty odors, dark stains, peeling or cracking walls and areas that are always wet.
If You Have Severe Allergies or Respiratory Conditions:
People with severe allergies or respiratory conditions are often sensitive to mold. If you notice that your symptoms have gotten worse, a mold test can help identify the cause.
If You Are Buying or Selling a Home:
Although an inspection isn’t required when buying or selling a home, it can give you peace of mind when it comes to a major purchase.
However, if you can see mold, you can usually skip mold testing and move on directly to mold cleanup. Whether you need a mold inspection or removal, call 1-888-992-8371 for a free in-person estimate from a Restoration 360 specialist near you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mold Detection and Inspection
Depending on the situation, your home insurance may cover mold testing. Review your insurance policy or contact your insurance agent for details. Our mold detection specialists work with all insurance companies and are familiar with the claims process.
Although home mold testing kits are available, they are rarely effective. Since mold occurs naturally in the air, most home test kits get contaminated during the testing process. These tests usually return inconclusive results at best and are not worth the money.
Mold detection usually takes one to three hours depending on the size of your home. Additionally, it may take longer if more invasive tests are needed. Our free visual mold inspection, as part of our mold removal estimate process, usually takes less than an hour. It can take several days or even weeks to get the results from a mold test.
Mold Inspection and Removal Articles and Resources
How To Kill Mold in Your Basement
The basement is one of the most common places for mold. Just a little bit of water can cause a big mold problem. We cover
What Season Is the Worst for Mold in Your Home?
Unfortunately, mold is a common problem in many homes. While some seasons are worse, mold can grow in your home at any time. We explain
What To Know About Buying a House With Mold
The housing marketing is very competitive and you need to act fast when you find your dream home. However, finding mold during the home inspection
