Do I Need Mold Inspection and Testing Before Remediation?
Mold is a common issue for homes and businesses in Southwest Florida. Before you know it, you could have a much bigger problem than you first expected. Whether this is your first mold infestation or you’re dealing with an ongoing issue, you are probably looking for the best solution to get the mold gone fast. However, working on a budget means that you’re left questioning if every step of the removal process is necessary. Do you really need mold inspection and testing before remediation?
Results from Two Sources
Mold inspection and testing are two different processes. They have different licensing, processes, and end goals when performing their tasks. When you suspect a mold problem, an inspection is the first step you should take. Even if you think the mold is obvious, different factors could affect how the remediation should take place. It helps to have two separate, independent parties to analyze and share their findings. They’ll have access to different types of equipment to give you a complete analysis of the mold in your home.
Catches Hidden Mold
Not all mold is visible; in some cases, the microscopic spores haven’t even started spreading. Since those tiny spores can make their way into your home’s interior and lie dormant, testing and inspections will find those traces that you can’t see for yourself. Pros will use a variety of methods, from moisture meters to testing strips, to find evidence in areas that you don’t access. Mold detection and testing technology are so advanced that they can determine the type and location of mold behind walls, under the carpet, and behind plumbing.
Clear Expectations
Once the inspection and testing techs finish their work, your remediation team will know exactly what they’re dealing with and how to approach it. With over 100,000 species of mold, it’s understandable that they can take many forms. Inspection and test results will help your technicians make a realistic plan since they know the type of mold, where it is, and the severity. Having a realistic cost and timeline for removal and repairs in mind helps manage your expectations about the process. Your remediation tech will also keep you informed along the way.
Higher Chance for Success
Knowing what you’re up against gives you a better chance for a successful remediation. Since mold can grow in areas you can’t see or access regularly, mold testing and inspection can catch potential problems in those locations. Failing to test or inspect a mold-infested home could mean that areas get missed or not fully treated, which will only cause the mold to come back. An inspection will also determine if the source of mold is a water leak that you aren’t aware of, fixing two problems at once. Water damage, along with mold, can wreak havoc on a home, so fixing both will give you a much higher chance for success. A thorough inspection can reveal problems with your HVAC system, foundation, or even roofing, allowing you to complete repairs before they get out of hand.
Insurance Compliance
If your mold situation happens to fall under your insurance coverage, most companies will require inspection and testing before they cover the costs of remediation. Although many mold cases aren’t covered, those that are will only pay for part of the costs only if you first complete inspection and testing. That’s because insurance companies want physical proof before covering the costs of removal. Most testing and inspection companies will work alongside your insurance, so you don’t have to do it yourself.
What’s the Mold Inspection and Testing Process?
Since inspection and testing have two separate processes, it helps to think of them as their own individual steps. If you suspect mold or see clear signs, the first step is to contact a certified mold inspection expert. They are highly trained to use moisture meters, leak detection tools, and any other equipment they have to determine the mold’s source. If their results return positive, then the next step is testing. Your inspector can refer you two a third-party mold tester, ensuring accurate results and peace of mind. They’ll share their findings with you, your inspectors, and your insurance if necessary so you can start removal and remediation ASAP.
It’s critical that you seek mold services after water damage, flooding, or if you see or suspect mold. Spores can duplicate and spread in as little as 48 hours, so a fast response time ensures that you can contain the damage as much as possible. Since mold can cause structural damage along with health problems, the best thing you can do is to get started immediately. The sooner you begin the process, the better your chances for success!
Mold Inspection in Southwest Florida
Do you need mold inspection services in Southwest Florida? At iMold, we understand the severity of the damage caused by mold. That’s why we work 24/7 to keep you safe and reduce your repair bill. Contact us day or night for a 30-minute response time from Florida’s most trusted mold removal experts.
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