Is Testing for Mold Really Worth It? Is It a Scam?

With so many scams out there these days, it’s wise to question and research anything before you make an investment. For homeowners or potential home buyers, this includes testing for mold. You want to make sure you aren’t paying for unnecessary inspections or remediation. To avoid scams, use the following information to determine whether a mold inspection is worth your while.

Structural surprises

A professional mold inspector can assess the home from top to bottom and let you know exactly where moisture is entering the structure. This assessment can help prevent mold problems as well as reveal structural problems in the home. You may learn about poor drainage or foundation issues or leaks in the roof, windows or plumbing. You can use this information to make repairs that will prevent future damage caused by mold or other issues.

A hidden hazard

Mold thrives in dark, moist areas. This means it’s often hidden away in basements or behind walls, where you never see it. The benefit of a mold inspection is that it can reveal the presence of mold that might otherwise go undetected for an extended period. During that time, the mold can grow and cause more and more damage to the home, as well as pose health hazards to you and your family.

Peace of mind

If you’re considering a home purchase, your list of concerns is probably extensive. You may wonder how well the previous owners have kept up the home. You may wonder how much it will cost to maintain the property in the future. Completing a mold inspection can help answer some of these questions. If the inspection reveals no mold, you can have peace of mind that mold is not currently an issue for the property, so there’s one less thing to worry about.

EPA recommendations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets no standards for mold levels or growth, so a property will not pass or fail a mold inspection based on any governmental regulations. However, this agency does note that exposure to mold can cause health issues, such as respiratory complaints, and recommends cleaning up mold if it’s present in the home. The EPA also notes that a mold inspection is probably not necessary if the mold is visible. Still, if you are unsure whether mold is present or how far it has spread, a mold inspection can be helpful.

Experts you can trust

One of the best ways to avoid scams is to partner with trusted professionals for your mold inspection. Ahold of Mold Environmental was established in 1994 and has a track record of success with a long line of satisfied customers. Our core group of staff includes environmental hygienists, drainage contractors, engineers, architects, remediation contractors and indoor air quality experts. Our team specializes in diagnosing, remediating and repairing mold and water damage of nearly any extent. We are happy to answer any questions you have about mold inspections and their benefits. Reach us today at 716-898-8143 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Categorised in: Mold Prevention