Mould in the home presents several problems. It’s unsightly, of course, but the damage can go much deeper than that. Mould can also damage your home structurally, and it can be a danger to the humans and animals who live there.
If you suspect that you have mould growing in your house, it’s important to bring in the professionals for a thorough inspection — and possibly remediation, too. Before you hire a mould inspector, read up on what to know going into the process.
Five Questions To Ask a Mould Inspector Before Hiring
Are You Certified?
It’s difficult, if not impossible, for an untrained eye to determine the extent to which mould has infiltrated a structure. That goes for you and for potential inspectors.
The requirements for certification in mould inspection vary, so you should check with local authorities. However, any inspector you contract should be able to produce proof of their training and certification.
How Many Samples Will You Take, and What’s the Process?
Reliable, professional mould inspectors will typically first conduct a visual inspection, and then proceed to testing procedures. They will take samples of the air outside the structure, for control purposes, and will take multiple samples of the indoor air.
There are specific guidelines regulating the collection of samples, the manner of sampling, and the importance that is attributed to sample results. Most inspectors see samples as only one aspect of assessing your home for mould, but it’s nevertheless an important aspect. Make sure you understand what the process is, as well as how it may impact your family’s daily routine.
What Is Your Turnaround Time?
If you suspect the presence of mould in your home, you’re no doubt anxious to have it removed as quickly as possible. However, quality mould inspection shouldn’t be rushed. The inspectors need time to thoroughly evaluate your home, send samples they collect to the lab, and then to write up the report.
What Type of Report Will I Receive?
Some inspectors will only forward the lab results to you, which might not be particularly helpful. Other, more thorough inspection companies will actually explain and interpret those results for you in a written report. This report is helpful to your understanding of the situation, but also to convey pertinent information to the company that will be providing remediation or restoration services.
Do You Also Provide Mould Cleaning or Remediation?
Companies that provide both inspection services and mould remediation services are generally frowned upon by industry experts. After all, if a company stands to benefit from cleaning the mould they find, what’s to stop them from finding copious amounts of mould in every home they inspect?
A mould inspection company may be able to provide recommendations for remediation services, but it’s not a smart idea to have them actually perform remediation themselves.
Do Your Homework Before Hiring An Inspector
Discovering that you may have mould in your home is a frightening experience, but don’t fall prey to panic — or to companies that exploit your panic for their own gain. Take your time when considering which company to hire for mould inspection.