Why test for Mold

The purpose of a mold inspection is to determine the presence of mold spores in an indoor environment, our mold inspection will determine what kind of mold species were found, the amounts found in the air or a surface if mold in visible and if the amount of spores found are normal for that environment or elevated.

What do we do during the inspection?
Inspection Process detailed:

1- We walk through the entire property looking for possible (red flags) water intrusion, water stains, leaks or odors that indicate possible contamination.  

2- We check these possible water problems to determine if the moisture is active, using moisture detectors or Infra red camera if needed.  We also check for moisture around windows, plumbing fixtures and appliances.

3- We take relative humidity readings, dew point, Grains per Pound and ambient temperature readings, to determine humidity or condensation problems.

4- We inspect the HVAC system/s for microbial contamination, including the air handler, AC coils and ductwork, we also test the functioning of the equipment like the temperature differential from the intake to the supply to determine if AC is cooling the air properly. (AC are inspected only if they are easily accessible)

5- We take air or surface samples of possible mold contamination as required.

6- The samples taken are analyzed by an AIHA accredited laboratory.

7- According to the lab results and the environmental data gathered during the inspection we write a comprehensive report indicating what kind of mold spores we found and how much of it was present in the air or surface sampled, and we also determine if the mold present in the environment is normal or elevated. We also write recommendations on how to remove the contamination and prevent it from returning in the future.

How long does it take to get my results back from the lab?
Usually 48 to 72 business hours, 24 hours rush service is available for $99.

The inspection report will take another 24 hours to be completed, the total estimated wait time for the complete report will be 3 to 4 business days without rush service, and 2 business days with rush service.  

What does that do? (Tools used during inspection)

Infrared cameras are used to detect moisture hidden inside walls and other areas by measuring very slight temperature differentials between cooler wet surfaces, and warmer dry surfaces.

Particle counters are highly sensitive scientific instruments that use an internal laser to count particles passing through it that are of a predetermined size range (from 0.3 Microns to 10 Microns). These devices cannot identify the particles they count; however, many of the particles they count may be mold spores because they verify the particular size of the particles that are counted. Air sampling is required to identify particles.

Hygrometers are used to determine the temperature, humidity, content of water in air and condensation temperatures in the environment used.


Laser thermometers are used to measure temperature on surfaces.They are used to check the AC and other components that could condensate such as AC registers.

Moisture meters are used to determine the moisture content in a specific material, moisture meters can detect moisture on the surface as well as moisture in about ¾” deep in the material, they are very effective when detecting moisture behind sheet rock walls. 

Smoke Pens are used to determine air flow and pressure of indoor environments. The smoke released by a smoke pen is non toxic.



How are air sample collected?
Air samples are collected using a calibrated pump that impacts mold spores on to a microscope slide inside a sterile cassette, then the slides are looked at under the microscope at an accredited lab to identify the genus of the mold spores and the quantity.


Are they any more charges for the services performed?
All prices given by phone or in writing are estimated prices and might not be exact.

The number of samples to be taken and the services performed during the inspection will determine the final price; before any extra samples or additional services are performed the client will be asked for an approval. Sampling is based on findings during the inspection so it is impossible to quote an exact number of samples before the inspection is performed; sampling protocol is also based on IESO (Indoor Environmental Standards Organization) guidelines and standards.

What determines the amount of samples taken during the inspection?
There are many factors that determine the amount and location of samples taken, as per standard guidelines we are required to collect 1 exterior control sample, 1 interior sample per level and or numbers of AC’s present and one sample in each area that shows visual conditions such as water intrusion and or visual mold growth.

Examples:    
2 story house, 1 Ac per floor: 3 Samples are required
1 story house, 1 AC: 2 Samples are required
1 story house, 2 AC’s on the same floor: 3 Samples are required.

Why do we have to do a sample outside?
The exterior sample is used to compare the inside spore levels with normal fungal ecology outside, this is the most relied upon method of analyzing test results. A normal indoor environment should have spore levels equal or lower than those found outside.

Does the inspector go in the crawlspace or attic?
We only access crawlspaces or attics that are 3.5 feet or higher and that do not pose a danger to our inspectors.

So you found moisture on my wall, does that mean I have to tear it out?
Moisture is linked to microbial growth, after building materials get wet it only takes 48 to 72 for mold and or bacteria to start growing, so most likely if materials are moist they will have to be replaced, some non porous materials can be treated. 

Can I do it myself, or do I have to get a mold remediator?
It all depends on the size and complexity of the situation, but usually we do not recommend that an inexperienced person tries to remove microbial contaminated materials. Mold remediation is a complex process and it requires knowledge, equipment and chemicals.

Where do I find a trust worthy Remediation Company?
There are many good reputable companies and many that are not. We do recommend a company that we think is a good reputable company, but we suggest that before having a remediation job performed that you look around an decide for yourself. The name of the company that we recommend and their contact information will be on the inspection report. We are not affiliated in any way with any remediation company neither the one that we recommend, we recommend this company to the client as a courtesy, and it’s the client’s sole responsibility to find one on their own; we do not take any liability or responsibility for what any remediation company does.

What happens after the mold remediation?
After the remediation process in completed there is a need for an additional inspection called post remediation verification or clearance inspection. The purpose of this inspection is to determine if contamination has been removed properly.

Is there a charge for this Clearance inspection?
Yes, there is a charge. The price of this inspection will vary depending many factors, you can ask your inspector for more information

So you found mold, am I going to get sick?
The potential for health problems occurs when people inhale large quantities of the airborne mold spores. For some people, however, a relatively small number of mold spores can cause health problems. Infants, children, immune-compromised patients, pregnant women, individuals with existing respiratory conditions and the elderly are at higher risks for adverse health effects from mold.

We suggest that you and or your family consult a doctor regarding any health concerns. (Take your lab results to the doctor)

So, you found mold, do I have to move out temporarily?
Since every individual reacts differently to mold exposure we cannot make any recommendations regarding if environments are safe or unsafe for certain individuals, but we do suggest you ask your doctor on weather your house is safe for you and or you family or not.

Should I get an Air purifier?
Having the appropriate air purifier will definitely make a difference in the air quality of the property; but it is not the solution to a contamination problem. If mold remediation is required it cannot be avoided by using an air purifier. EcoTech is a distributor for industry leading air purification systems, please ask your inspector for information about an air purifiers that is right for your specific situation.

What information can I expect from the inspector at the time of the inspection?
Some of the findings that may require immediate action might be relayed to the client at the time of the inspection. Most conclusions regarding the inspection will not be drawn until the lab results are in.

What Is Mold?:
Mildew and molds are fungi - simple microscopic organisms that thrive
anywhere there is a moist environment. Molds are a necessary part of the environment; without them, leaves would not decay and aspects of soil enrichment could not take place. It is their ability to destroy organic materials that makes mold a problem for people.
Mildew (mold in its early stages) and molds grow on wood products,
ceiling tiles, cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves and other organic materials. Mold colonies can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours. They reproduce via spores - tiny, lightweight “seeds”- that travel through the air. Molds digest organic material, eventually destroying the material they grow on, and then spread to destroy adjacent organic material. In addition to the damage molds can cause in your home, they can also cause mild to severe
health problems.

What are the potential health effects of mold in buildings and homes?

We are exposed to many kinds of mold both inside and outside the house. The exposure is greater in damp or wet conditions, especially when timely drying out does not have a chance to occur.
Of the thousands of molds that exist, some are known allergens (aggravating or causing skin, eye and respiratory problems) and a few
molds produce harmful mycotoxins that can cause serious problems. But
all molds, in the right conditions and high enough concentrations, are
capable of adversely affecting human health.
The potential for health problems occurs when people inhale large
quantities of the airborne mold spores. For some people, however, a
relatively small number of mold spores can cause health problems. Infants, children, immune-compromised patients, pregnant women, individuals with existing respiratory conditions and the elderly are at higher risks for adverse health effects from mold.
 

How do molds get in the indoor environment and how do they grow?

Mold spores occur in the indoor and outdoor environments. Mold spores may enter your house from the outside through open doorways, windows, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems with outdoor air intakes. Spores in the air outside also attach themselves to people and animals, making clothing, shoes, bags, and pets convenient vehicles for carrying mold indoors.

When mold spores drop on places where there is excessive moisture, such as where leakage may have occurred in roofs, pipes, walls, plant pots, or where there has been flooding, they will grow. Many building materials provide suitable nutrients that encourage mold to grow. Wet cellulose materials, including paper and paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, and wood products, are particularly conducive for the growth of some molds. Other materials such as dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation materials, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery, commonly support mold growth.

What is Stachybotrys chartarum (Stachybotrys atra)?

Stachybotrys chartarum (also known by its synonym Stachybotrys atra) is a greenish-black mold. It can grow on material with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content, such as fiberboard, gypsum board, paper, dust, and lint. Growth occurs when there is moisture from water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding. Constant moisture is required for its growth. It is not necessary, however, to determine what type of mold you may have. All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.

How do you keep mold out of buildings and homes?

As part of routine building maintenance, buildings should be inspected for evidence of water damage and visible mold. The conditions causing mold (such as water leaks, condensation, infiltration, or flooding) should be corrected to prevent mold from growing.

Specific Recommendations:                                       

• Keep humidity level in house between 40% and 60%.
• Use air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
• Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans in kitchen and bathrooms.
• Use mold inhibitors which can be added to paints.
• Clean bathroom with mold-killing products.
• Do not carpet bathrooms.
• Remove and replace flooded carpets.

My landlord or builder will not take any responsibility for cleaning up the mold in my home. Where can I go for help?

If you feel your property owner, landlord, or builder has not been responsive to concerns you’ve expressed regarding mold exposure, you can contact your local board of health or housing authority. Applicable codes, insurance, inspection, legal, and similar issues about mold generally fall under state and local (not federal) jurisdiction. You could also review your lease or building contract and contact local or state government authorities, your insurance company, or an attorney to learn more about local codes and regulations and your legal rights.

I’m sure that mold in my workplace is making me sick. What do I do?

If you believe you are ill because of exposure to mold in the building where you work, you should first consult your health care provider to determine the appropriate action to take to protect your health. Notify your employer and, if applicable, your union representative about your concern so that your employer can take action to clean up and prevent mold growth. To find out more about mold, remediation of mold, or workplace safety and health guidelines and regulations, you may also want to contact your local (city, county, or state) health department.

You should also read the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Guidelines, Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, at http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/mold_remediation.html.

I am very concerned about mold in my children’s school and how it affects their health. Who do I contact?

If you believe your children are ill because of exposure to mold in their school, first consult their health care provider to determine the appropriate medical action to take. Contact the school’s administration to express your concern and to ask that they remove the mold and prevent future mold growth. If needed, you could also contact the local school board.

You can also read the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines, Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, at http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/mold_remediation.html. Also, see these Web sites for more indoor air quality tools for schools:

• http://www.epa.gov/iaq/schools/tfs/guidtoc.html
• http://www.epa.gov/iaq/schools/tfs/guideh.html