What a visual inspection covers
We check the usual failure points first: bathroom exhaust venting, attic ridge and soffit vents, crawlspace vapor barriers, window sills and any area with a known past leak. Moisture meter readings on drywall and framing tell us what's actively wet versus just stained from an old, resolved leak. Most homes get a clear answer without needing lab work.
When lab-verified air testing makes sense
Real estate transactions, a musty smell with no visible source, or a family member with mold-sensitive allergies are the three situations where we recommend third-party air sampling. A certified lab compares indoor spore counts and species against an outdoor control sample, and you get a report that holds up for a buyer, a landlord dispute or an insurance claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the inspection really free?
Yes, the visual inspection and moisture check is free with no obligation. Lab air-quality testing is a separate, optional cost we'll quote upfront if you want it.
Can I test for mold myself with a store kit?
Petri-dish kits from the hardware store react to the mold spores that are always in normal air, so they will almost always show 'something.' A professional inspection tells you whether what's growing is actually a problem worth remediating.
Do I need testing before remediation, or can you just start?
For a small, obvious problem like a bathroom ceiling spot, we can usually go straight to remediation. Testing earns its cost when the source isn't visible or you need documentation for a sale or claim.