Finding mold in your home can be worrying. If you suspect mold may be lurking somewhere in your house, it's important to get a thorough inspection and testing done by professionals. According to Mainspring Recovery, an estimated 70% of homes have some kind of mold in them. Here are some of the steps you can take to get your home checked for mold the right way.

Look for Visible Signs of Mold

The first place to start is to examine your home yourself for any visible mold growth. Look for black, green, or white fuzzy or powdery patches along walls, under sinks, in your basement or crawlspace, or anywhere moisture condenses. Sniff for mildew odors and check for rotting wood or drywall. Make note of all areas that look or smell suspicious, so the mold inspection company can target those key zones. Even if you don't see obvious mold, an expert inspection is recommended especially if you have had water damage.

Interview Prospective Mold Inspection Companies

Once you suspect your home may have a mold issue, the next step is finding a qualified mold inspection company. This type of company may also be referred to as a mold remediation company. Search for certified professionals specifically trained in mold testing and remediation. Make sure any inspectors they send to your home have up-to-date training credentials from organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Thoroughly interview companies before hiring.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Contact at least three mold inspection companies and get written quotes to compare costs. Beware of prices that seem unusually high or low. Look for experienced pros who provide thorough, quality inspections at competitive rates. Don't focus solely on cost when making your decision, however, as cheap inspectors may cut corners.

Ask Questions About Their Inspection Process

When interviewing a mold remediation company, ask detailed questions about their methods and testing procedures. Find out if they use infrared cameras to identify hidden moisture and mold growth not visible to the naked eye. Inquire about the types of samples they collect such as air, surface, or carpet samples. Also, ask whether they use moisture meters to identify damp areas conducive to mold. Taking the time to understand their inspection process is key.

Verify They Follow Industry Standards

A reputable mold remediation company should adhere to current standards and guidelines issued by respected organizations. For example, the IICRC S520 Standard outlines protocols for proper mold remediation. Make sure any company you consider follows the latest industry regulations during their inspections. This helps ensure accuracy, safety, and compliance with any insurance claims you may file.

Get References and Check Reviews

Make sure to request references from past clients and read through reviews. You want confirmation the company provides professional, high-quality services and stands behind their work. Speaking with previous customers directly offers helpful insight into what to expect during your home inspection process as well. Reliable companies should have no shortage of positive reviews.

Ask About Licensing, Certifications, and Insurance

For your protection, only work with mold professionals who are licensed in your state and carry certifications demonstrating their advanced mold training. Ask prospective companies for proof of general liability insurance as well as pollution liability insurance to cover potential mold issues. Requiring proper credentials and coverage ensures you've hired reputable experts.

Schedule the Inspection

Once you've selected the best mold remediation company based on your research, call to schedule your home inspection. On the initial inspection date, the assessor will examine all areas you highlighted during your interview. Often, they will return one to two more times over the following days to collect samples that then get sent to an independent lab for testing.

Review Their Report and Recommendations

When you receive the inspection report, look for thorough documentation of all suspect areas tested, detailed results of each sample collected, and clear photographs. The recommendations section should outline a step-by-step remediation plan based on current industry guidelines to eliminate the mold and address the underlying causes. The report should also advise you of any areas that require additional testing or assessment.

Addressing potential mold issues in your home requires diligent research to find reputable, experienced professionals. Taking the time to properly vet a mold remediation company gives you confidence in the accuracy of your results. Partnering with mold experts who adhere to strict industry standards ensures your family's health and safety remain the top priority. Call The Best Air Quality & Restoration today to schedule an appointment to get your home checked for mold.