Mold Inspection: How Does Mold Affect Your Home?

When purchasing a new home, you should consider having a mold inspection performed. It is not the same as standard home inspections. The price will vary according to the size of the house. How much does a mold inspection cost? How do you know if mold inspection and testing are worthwhile?

Around 70% of homes have mold, and about 28% of the population suffers from health problems. Whether buying a new house or selling the old one, getting a mold inspection done will save you financial and physical health troubles in the future.

A mold inspection is necessary for several circumstances. Let’s look at when a mold inspection is required, what mold testing companies do, and how much it costs on average.

What Is a Mold Inspection?

Mold inspection is a process where a qualified professional examines a particular area to assess the presence and extent of mold growth. The inspector visually inspects the property. And look for visible signs of mold such as discoloration, water stains, or musty odors.

They may also use specialized tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden moisture sources. In some cases, they take samples of suspected mold for laboratory analysis.

Based on their findings, the inspector provides a detailed report outlining the location and extent of mold growth, the causes of moisture, and any associated issues. The report may include recommendations for mold remediation, which can involve professional cleanup and moisture control measures.

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Mold Inspection vs. Mold Testing

These are two related but distinct processes. Here’s a comparison between the two:

Mold Inspection

• Purpose: Mold inspectors visually examine a property to identify areas affected by mold growth.
• Process: Qualified professionals visually inspect the property, and look for visible signs of mold, water stains, discoloration, or musty odors. They may also utilize specialized tools to detect hidden moisture sources.
• Focus: Mold inspection emphasizes identifying the presence, extent, and potential causes of mold growth.
• Benefits: Mold inspections provide comprehensive assessments of the mold situation. They help determine the need for further testing or remediation measures.

Mold Testing

• Purpose: Mold testing involves collecting samples from the property for laboratory analysis. This determines the types and concentrations of mold present.
• Process: Professionals collect samples through air sampling or surface sampling methods. Air sampling captures mold spores from the air, while surface sampling includes swabbing or tape-lifting samples from surfaces with visible mold growth.
• Focus: Mold testing focuses on identifying the specific types of mold present and their concentrations. It provides information about potential health risks and assists in developing targeted remediation strategies.
• Benefits: Mold testing offers detailed information about the mold species and levels, aiding individuals with allergies or sensitivities. It also helps assess indoor air quality and guides remediation efforts.

What Happens During a Mold Inspection?

A mold inspector will check the house for obvious damp spots. The mold inspection process is generally done in three steps:

Step 1: Assess the exterior side of the house

• Deteriorated window caulking
• Cracking in the exterior walls
• Low-lying areas of the property where water can pool up
• Sprinklers that are too close to the house

Step 2: Mold Sampling

The next step is mold sampling. Here, the inspector shortlists the areas of the house that could have mold. This is not necessary for every home.

Step 3: Moisture Mapping

The house inspector will now check around doors, windows, plumbing fixtures, HVAC air handlers, and other areas where moisture can affect the construction/building. The samples collected during this assessment are sent to a laboratory. If the inspector is also a microbiologist, they may do this analysis themselves.

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Types of Mold Inspections

There are two main categories of Mold Inspection types:

Basic Visual Inspection

This is the most basic type, where a qualified inspector performs a thorough visual examination of your entire house, including high-risk areas like basements, attics, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and around leaky areas. They’ll be looking for visible signs of mold growth, such as discoloration, fuzziness, or musty odors.

Comprehensive Inspection

This is a more in-depth approach that combines several methods for a thorough analysis. This type includes some advanced techniques for a deeper investigation. these techniques are used based on your situation as well as the inspector’s recommendation. This can be further divided into 2 types:

• Core Methods: These are essential techniques like air sampling, surface sampling (if needed), moisture testing, and a detailed visual inspection.
• Advanced Techniques (Optional): Depending on your situation, the inspector might recommend additional methods like thermal imaging, boroscope inspection, or various lab analysis techniques for even more precise information. These techniques are used based on your situation as well as the inspector’s recommendation.

The specific components of a comprehensive inspection can vary depending on the inspector’s recommendations and your unique situation. Always discuss your concerns and expectations with the inspector beforehand to ensure the chosen approach effectively addresses your needs.

How Much Does a Mold Inspection Cost?

Mold inspections cost about the same as standard home inspections cost. The costs vary slightly from region to region, but the difference is usually minimal. Substantial differences between contractors in the same area are just as likely.

Mold inspections typically cost $300 to $400 for small to medium-sized houses (below 4,000 square feet). Above 4,000 square feet, the price ranges from $700 to $900.

Don’t forget that these prices are only for inspection and do not always include testing. You can save money by avoiding unnecessary mold testing. Some mold remediation contractors will provide a free mold inspection in exchange for being hired to perform the remediation itself.

What Happens If Mold Is Found During Home Inspection?

If mold is found during a home inspection, several actions can occur depending on the severity. Here are some possible scenarios:

• The home inspector may recommend a certified mold specialist to conduct a more detailed mold inspection. The inspection will give a better understanding of the mold’s type, concentration, and potential health risks.
• The buyer and seller can negotiate repairs, remediation, or a reduction in the sale price to address the mold issue.
• Professional mold remediation may be necessary if the mold growth is significant or poses health concerns. Hiring a qualified mold remediation specialist allows for safe removal and cleanup.
• The presence of mold and any remediation efforts may need to be disclosed to future buyers or tenants. It is essential to keep documentation of the mold inspection findings for reference.

Consulting mold inspectors, real estate agents, and legal experts will help navigate the requirements related to mold.

Bottom line

Mold inspections assess your home for mold growth, presence, and potential causes. These inspections help determine if further testing or remediation is necessary. The cost typically ranges from $300 to $900 depending on the house size and complexity of the inspection.

There are two main types: basic visual inspection and comprehensive inspection. A basic inspection looks for visible signs of mold. A comprehensive inspection combines methods like air sampling, surface sampling, moisture testing, and a detailed visual inspection.

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