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1. 4 Signs You Might Not be Working With an Honest Mold Inspection Company

   July 20, 2016 9:28 am Leave a Comment

   Like other service industries, the mold industry business has scam artists eager to profit from the public’s lack of information about mold. These scams are based on the fears of the general public in regard to mold and other indoor contaminants. While it may be hard for most law-abiding people to imagine, it happens quite often in the greater Los Angeles area. Here are a few top mold scams and tips on avoiding them.

   1. Uncertified Inspector

   This is not as hard to detect as believed, because a reputable mold inspector will hold membership with at least one nationally recognized trade association for mold professionals, and carry both worker’s compensation and professional liability insurance. Always verify a mold inspector’s certification(s), experience and references before choosing one

   2. Visual-Only Mold Inspection

   Companies or individuals claiming they can determine if there’s a mold problem simply by looking at it is one of the more common scams in the industry. While a thorough visual inspection is an important part of the inspection process, it should be accompanied by testing to scientifically determine whether mold is present, where it is and the level of concentrations that are present. A visual-only examination will never accurately prove that you have a problem.

   3. Mold Inspectors Who Do Mold Removal

   Some of the worst perpetrators of mold scams are “mold inspectors” who are also in the mold remediation (removal) business. Mold remediation is a highly lucrative business, and unscrupulous contractors use mold inspections as a means to drum up expensive remediation jobs for themselves. Most consumers don’t know enough about residential mold to comprehend they’re being conned until it’s too late. Performing both mold inspections and remediation is a severe conflict of interest with a high potential for fraudulently charging multiple thousands in unnecessary repair work.

   The best way to dodge this mold scam is to hire an independent “inspection only” company that isn’t affiliated with any mold remediation business. It’s the best way to ensure you’re getting an honest inspection and unbiased inspection report.

   4. “Self-graded” Post-Remediation Clearance Testing 

   The last step in the process is a post-remediation inspection to confirm and document that the mold removal was successful, but clearance testing should never be performed by the mold removal contractor — particularly if he or she offers to do if for free. Always have the post-remediation clearance testing conducted by a certified mold inspector without affiliation to the remediation contractor. Just as a teacher doesn’t let a student grade his or her paper, nor should you allow the repair company to grade their own work.

2. Avoiding Scams from Mold Damage Companies

   July 6, 2016 9:29 am Leave a Comment

   Homeowners in the greater Los Angeles area aren’t the only residents concerned with mold. It’s a problem faced by area realtors, contractors, property managers, landlords and tenants. In large residential or commercial buildings, the costs for mold testing and remediation can climb into many thousands of dollars. If the mold infestation is serious, tenants may be forced to vacate their homes and/or business locations until the mold is removed.

   The mold testing and removal industry grew in direct proportion to the public’s awareness of the problem. Unfortunately, this industry growth has become profitable enough to attract businesses that are not properly trained or certified in testing for and eliminating mold problems. The importance of becoming educated on how to successfully hire a reputable mold testing company and avoid getting scammed cannot be stressed enough. Here are several more tips on protecting people and properties from mold scans.

   Questionable Inspections

   Anyone who owns or manages a property must perform due diligence when investigating complaints about possible mold growth. A mold inspector from a “test only” company will collect moisture readings and samples in order to confirm or rule out a mold problem. A certified mold inspector who isn’t affiliated with a mold remediation business has no reason to find a mold problem where none exists. On the other hand, a full-service test and removal company does, and will usually “discover” mold.

   There are different types of mold testing — most common include air and surface sampling for mold spores in the air and on walls, furniture, shelving and counter tops. Bulk surface sampling includes testing fabrics, carpet, and other porous materials. If mold is visible, further testing may be necessary to confirm the type of mold present. Wall cavity sampling is more invasive and aimed determining if there is a hidden mold problem inside of walls.

   Common Scam Tactics

   Be aware of “black mold” discoveries. This well-known term is not as common as people believe. Many types of molds are black in color, and a simple visual inspection will not provide a definitive answer. Qualified laboratory testing is necessary to determine the type of mold present with any degree of accuracy.

   Effective mold remediation never involves merely covering it up. Disreputable remediation companies employ gimmicks such as using fumigants, ozone generators, encapsulation, and other expensive methods that may be more toxic than the mold itself, including using chlorine bleach. Mold must be completely removed and the moisture leak that enabled it to grow must be eliminated.

3. Why a Mold “Test Only” Company is Important

   June 22, 2016 9:26 am Leave a Comment

   There are various processes used to test a private home or apartment building for mold, but if you suspect you may have a problem, it’s important to consult a certified mold inspector with no ties to any mold remediation company. There are countless companies in the greater Los Angeles area that offer both mold inspections and remediation services, but it can cause a conflict of interest that homeowners and property managers should avoid.

   How to Choose a “Test Only” Mold Inspector

   Make certain that the mold inspector you choose has no affiliation with a mold removal contracting company — a test-only inspector will have no vested interest in the results of the inspection and tests. The outcome will be an unbiased account of the true state of your property.

   Verify each mold inspector’s experience and references before choosing one. An experienced mold inspector will probably have performed hundreds of mold inspections annually, so ask for an inspector’s credentials and a list of former clients you can contact for references.

   There are several easily verifiable, nationally recognized professional mold inspection certification organizations. Make sure the mold inspector’s certification is backed up by verifiable work experience and any certifications are issued by accredited educational organizations.

   A reputable mold inspection company will also carry professional liability insurance and Workers’ Compensation insurance. Additionally, the company or inspector should hold verifiable membership with at least one national trade association for mold inspection professionals — another important point.

   A test only mold inspector should provide you with a written pre-inspection agreement listing all inspection and laboratory testing fees and the entire range of the inspection before work begins. Upon completion of the inspection/testing process, he or she should also provide you with a report that clearly documents the results of the visual inspection, including the location(s) and measurements taken of mold growth and the laboratory results of samples taken during the inspection.

   The Benefits of Choosing an Unbiased Mold Inspector

   Hiring a test only mold inspection company protects everyone concerned: the building owners, occupants and the mold remediation company (if needed). If the inspection report does indicate the need for mold remediation, the testing results will help assure that you’ll mitigate being oversold on costly and possibly unnecessary structural repairs or reconstruction by a remediation contractor.

4. What is Mold Remediation?

   June 16, 2016 9:27 am Leave a Comment

   If you recently had a mold inspection in your Los Angeles area apartment or home, the detailed report you received from the inspector should not only contain complete testing results, but multiple meaningful recommendations for repairs. Some inspectors may offer referrals regarding local mold remediation companies.

   It’s vital to choose a licensed and insured remediation specialist, but your mold inspector should not be receiving financial incentives for making such referrals. A reputable mold remediation specialist can help return your residence back to normal.

   Remediation Basics

   Each mold remediation process depends on the severity of mold growth and the surfaces on which the mold was found. To ensure that remediation work is being properly performed, it’s highly recommended that the remediation company you choose provides appropriate documentation of the entire process.

   Areas affected by mold growth will be isolated using advanced containment procedures such as erecting barriers around the area and using negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during repair. All interior fans and the building’s HVAC system will be turned off or isolated to prevent the spread of mold from the impacted area.

   Special tools, including “air scrubbers,” or high-efficiency particulate absorption (HEPA) vacuums may be used to assist with cleanup and prevent the spread of mold spores while remediation is in process.

   In cases of severe mold infestation, specialists may have to remove affected portions of a home’s structure and rebuild one or more rooms. All mold remediation include treating interior surfaces with an antimicrobial solution and disposal of all moldy materials.

   Post-Remedial Inspection

   When the remediation is completed, it’s important that a visual and analytical post-remedial verification (PRV) inspection be performed, ideally by the same mold inspection company that diagnosed the mold problem.

   The inspector will test for moisture and visually inspect for fungal activity within the containment area, and the amount of airborne mold spores inside can be measured against outside to clear the work before rebuilding can begin.

   Cost Considerations

   Just as the remediation process varies according to the amount of mold growth, so do various costs associated with the procedures. For example, costs to dismantle and rebuild entire rooms or sections of a residence can be prohibitive. Most area home owners and property managers can avoid paying the expenses involved in mold remediation with an insurance policy that covers this type of problem. The Los Angeles area can be susceptible to occasional wet weather and flood damage, but the plumbing leaks are a year-round occurrence. The right insurance policy may help if mold inspection and remediation is necessary.

5. What is a Mold Clearance Inspection?

   June 8, 2016 9:09 am Leave a Comment

   After having mold remediation performed, it’s important to schedule a mold clearance inspection of the work areas in order to ensure that the mold cleanup was done correctly and effectively, without accidentally distributing high levels of moldy dust or debris into other areas of the structure or the building’s HVAC system.

   Why a Clearance Inspection?

   If the remediation required removing interior or exterior walls or more, a clearance inspection is needed in order to verify that the mold has been adequately removed before reconstruction starts. It will also satisfy disclosure requirements for buyers in the event of a future sale by demonstrating that you handled the problem properly.

   In order to avoid any conflict of interest, the mold clearance inspection should never be performed by the mold remediation contracting company or its business associates. The best course is to contact an independent mold inspection company, preferably the one that did the original mold testing.

   Variables That Affect Testing

   In addition to an expert visual inspection, the inspection requires testing for cross-contamination of moldy dust by screening building areas that were not part of the mold cleanup job.

   Conducting air tests alone may produce unreliable results, as the airborne level of particles can vary greatly depending on a number of environmental variables.

   • Whether the HVAC systems are on or off
   • If fans are moving the air
   • Whether the home or building is empty or occupied (human activity can affect the difference in active airborne particle activity)
   • Whether one or more windows or interior/exterior doors is open or closed

   The Clearance Inspection Procedure

   The goal of the visual and analytical testing procedures is to ensure that the mold remediation process and cleanup reduced airborne mold spores to acceptable, pre-mold levels.

   • A visual inspection will be performed within the containment area in order to ensure the absence of any lingering moisture, dust or debris and the lack of visible fungal growth in the area.
   • The moisture content of any construction materials in the area will be inspected and tested for moisture content levels.
   • Airborne spore samples will be taken inside and outside of the remediated area for the levels to be analyzed in a laboratory for balance and/or discrepancies.

   If all of these tests return acceptable results, no further remediation will be required. However, if any one or more of the above test results are unacceptable, either a re-inspection or additional mold remediation will be recommended.

    

6. What is Involved in a Mold Inspection?

   May 5, 2016 9:25 am Leave a Comment

   

    

   Do you think mold might be growing somewhere in your Los Angeles area home or rental property? If so, it’s important to have a mold inspection performed. Assessing mold growth involves more than finding and testing mold that’s visibly growing on the walls, corners or ceiling, under floors or carpeting or within cabinets. Mold can also be an invisible intruder, growing behind, under and/or around the area where it’s visible. Even the smallest spot of surface mold can mean there’s a much larger mold colony growing out of sight.

   Why Call a Mold Inspector?

   The most obvious reason for having a mold inspection is knowing you have a mold problem in your home or apartment. If you’ve already located obvious mold growth, it’s very important to have a certified mold inspection and testing performed in order to get to the source of the problem.

   A few reasons to call a mold inspector even if mold isn’t visible:

   • The sudden onset of allergy or asthma symptoms and/or skin irritations
   • Being aware of a musty, damp smell in certain areas of your home
   • Knowing you have a water problem: seasonal flooding or leaking pipes, the foundation or roof

   Hire a Legitimate Mold Inspector

   The importance of choosing an experienced, certified mold inspector cannot be over-stressed. In addition to holding membership with at least one nationally recognized trade association for mold professionals, a reputable inspection company will carry both worker’s compensation and professional liability insurance. To minimize any future conflicts of interest, the inspection company should only perform inspections, testing and consulting – not remediation.

   Professional Mold Inspections

   Every mold inspection/testing procedure should include visual observations and moisture readings. If there are visible signs, malodors or positive moisture readings, sampling recommendations will usually be in order. Air, surface and bulk tests each provide the inspector with its own unique results.

   • Air samples are used to test the concentration of airborne mold spores in a structure. They are taken using a vacuum pump to draw air through a collection device called a spore trap.
   • Surface samples are taken from a variety of surfaces around the residence using the tape-lift and/or swab method.
   • Visible mold growth may indicate that bulk testing be performed, which involves collecting and testing pieces of wallboard and other materials from the home.

   The test samples should be analyzed by a reputable, independent laboratory that provides documentation of the test results. An easily understood inspection report should be delivered to you by the inspection company that explain the lab results and offers meaningful recommendations for repair.

7. The Importance of a Clearance Inspection after Mold Removal

   April 26, 2016 9:23 am Leave a Comment

   

    

   Once a residential mold problem has been identified and remediated, a follow-up inspection is the next step in making sure your home, townhouse or apartment is completely ready for repairs or new construction. The purpose of a mold remediation follow-up inspection is to assure that the mold cleanup was done correctly and effectively – including that the cleanup process itself did not accidentally distribute dangerous levels of mold dust or debris into other areas of the structure of into the heating or air conditioning systems.

   The Inspection Process

   In addition to a complete visual inspection of the property, the inspection company should provide a homeowner, landlord or apartment manager with an in-depth, documented report of the findings. It’s also important that the inspector perform tests for any cross-contamination of mold-laden dust by screening those areas not included in the original mold cleanup job.

   The final inspection process should include the following procedures:

   • A visual inspection for demolition and cleaning completeness
   • Mold screening tests in the affected area
   • Mold screening tests for possible contamination outside the affected area
   • Reporting any ongoing conditions which may continue to put the building at risk of a new mold problem
   • Lab processing of test samples and delivery of report

   In the interests of both continuity and to avoid a conflict of interest, it’s best to use the same company that performed the initial mold inspection.  As with the initial procedure, the clearance inspector should have no business or financial relationship with the company that performed the mold removal. While there are a number of companies that perform all four steps in the mold inspection and removal processes, the chances of engaging an unqualified or inexperienced company are high in this industry, compromising your legal standing in the off chance that a lawsuit may be necessary down the road.

   Rebuilding the Property

   Once the residential structure has been thoroughly inspected and the all-clear is given by the clearance inspector, it’s time to repair or rebuild those portions of the building affected by the mold removal process.

   Depending on the severity of the mold damage and remediation, repairs or new construction may be required before tenants or homeowners can resume normal activities in all areas of the structure. Depending on the building’s owner or manager, this step may be completed by a private construction contractor, general construction laborers, the owner or even members of the remediation company.

8. Rehabilitation Of Your Home After Mold

   9:22 am Leave a Comment

   

    

   Molds may play an important ecological role in nature, but nobody wants it in their Los Angeles area home. Moisture is the key factor in mold growth, influencing the types of mold present and the extent of its growth. A variety of materials in the home, including insulation, wallpaper, drywall backing paper, carpeting glues, dirt and dust can all serve as food sources for mold. If you’re concerned about possible mold contamination, it’s important to contact a certified test-only mold inspection company.

   Mold Inspection

   In addition to an in-depth visual inspection, the process typically includes taking test samples and moisture readings of building materials and interior temperature & humidity readings. A same-day inspection report should provide clearly understood results of all aspects of the inspection and tests, final conclusions and mold remediation recommendations.

   Mold Remediation

   If the mold inspector identifies a problem, a remediation company should be contacted separately from the mold inspection company. The process can be messy and invasive, as the original source of the moisture problem must be located and repaired.

   Once the problem is fixed, the remediation team will remove all moldy materials and clean the air and remaining surfaces of the affected areas. It’s vital that a remediation company is fully licensed and insured because the process may involve dismantling portions of the structure. All repair/construction work estimated to cost more than $500 should be performed by a fully licensed/insured construction contractor.

   Note: Many remediation/restoration businesses promise mold “removal” as part of their services, some going as far as guaranteeing to remove all mold in the residence. Because mold spores exist nearly everywhere, it’s impossible to fully eradicate it. An experienced, qualified remediation company focuses on getting mold levels back to normal levels – not making empty promises.

   Home Rehabilitation

   Removing and disposing of mold-infested materials, including drywall, insulation and carpeting, may be necessary to alleviate heavy mold growth. The process also involves thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing your furniture, curtains, clothing, home décor items and other salvageable items that may have been affected by mold.

   Depending on the damage, it may also be necessary to remove sub-floors and other structurally significant materials. Rehabilitation may involve minor repairs, such as painting and replacing carpeting and drywall – or new construction in large areas or entire rooms.

   Levels of mold damage differ, so each requires a unique solution – and it all starts with choosing the right mold inspector.

9. 3 Reasons for Same Day Mold Testing

   July 28, 2015 9:20 am Leave a Comment

   Mold has become an increasingly popular building and safety concern Same Day Mold Testing is an effective way to investigate a concern and determine the extent of a problem. Here are some important reasons that factor into a decision to perform same day mold testing.

   1. Real Estate Transactions. Buyers and sellers need to know if there is a mold problem before the property is transferred. Escrow timelines make mold testing an urgent matter. Time is of the essence so the sooner the better. Performing same day mold testing will yield immediate results that will enable the buyer to make request for repair. It will also provide sellers with actionable information to present the property in its best possible condition. Many times there is no problem at all. Other times, there are minor problems that can be corrected during the regular course of maintenance. Occasionally, there are mold problems that need to be addressed by a mold remediation (repair) company.
   2. Tenant Concerns. There are times when same day mold testing is necessary for landlord tenant relationships. Many tenants cannot get landlords to cooperate with investigating a mold concern. Same day mold testing allows tenants to provide documented proof of a mold problem in a timely manner to the landlord. Sometimes there are mold problems that have been ignored by landlords. A certified mold inspection will address the problem and provide a sense of urgency to compel the landlord to take action.
   3. Also landlords and property managers experience tenant’s that complain about mold in their apartment. Landlords should perform same day mold testing to satisfy their due diligence in the event of a formal complaint or lawsuit. Tenants and landlords are well served to perform same day mold testing to mitigate indoor environmental hazards and to preserve property values. Sometimes tenants have legitimate mold concerns within their unit. Other times, tenants have frivolous complaints about a mold concern to avoid paying rent or to break the lease.
   4. Avoid Mold Scams. Consumers of the mold industry need to be informed before hiring a mold inspection company as there are two types: test only and test & repair (full service). The initial investigation should always begin with a test only company that does not affiliate with a mold removal company. Same day mold testing and repair by the same company is considered a conflict of interest. Mold removal companies pose as inspectors then offer free inspections. The goal is to be the first responder so they can exaggerate problems and overcharge for solutions. Remember the old saying, “There is no such thing as a free lunch.” Same Day Mold Testing by an objective, independent test only company lessens the likelihood of being taken advantage of by full service mold removal companies. Some times there are minor problems that can be repaired inexpensively. Other times, extensive water damage requires expensive remediation. If you hire a test and repair company you will not know if you are getting an objective evaluation of your property. Mold removal companies make a lot of money to perform repairs so the natural inclination is to recommend repairs even if they are not fully justifiable.

   To summarize, Same Day Mold Testing is useful for at least three reasons:

   • Investigating potential mold problems during the course of a real estate transaction
   • Performing due diligence if you are a landlord or a tenant with a mold concern
   • Being an informed consumer in the mold industry so that you avoid being scammed by unscrupulous mold removal companies.

   Los Angeles Mold Inspector: Hire Right The First Time. Here’s How…

   Los Angeles Mold Inspectors are everywhere are look. But a qualified, reputable mold inspector can be challenging with so many companies to choose from. Here’s your guide for hiring a mold inspector in Los Angeles.

   • Mold Experience. How many mold inspections has the company performed? An experienced mold inspector should perform several hundred mold inspections per year. That way you know the mold inspector has seen a wide variety of scenarios. Ask your mold inspector how many verifiable mold inspections have been performed in the Los Angeles area.
   • Mold Credentials. There a several types of certifications and as many certifying organizations. The mold inspection company should cary worker’s compensation and professional liability insurance. They should hold membership in good standing with at least one nationally recognized trade association for mold professionals. The certifying organization should also be nationally recognized with an online registry of certified professionals. In both cases, you can verify the mold inspection company’s trade association membership and the mold inspector’s certification. Not all certifications are created equal! Make sure the mold inspector’s certification is based on verifiable work experience and the certification is issued by an accredited education organization.
   • Mold Inspection Equipment. Every mold inspector should have the basics; a moisture meter, an air sampling pump, and a respirator. Several other tools should be at the inspector’s disposal including sampling media (swabs, air cassettes). flash light, gloves, knee pads, and a mirror. There are various types of each of these tools. Ideally, the mold inspector will have the latest technology available. There are other tools that are high tech such as thermal imagine cameras, which is a tool designed to detect temperature variations typically associated with moisture.
   • References. With the abidance of review sites on the internet it should be pretty easy to get an idea about the mold inspection company’s reputation. Any company that has been around for several years is bound to have to have a couple unsatisfied customers. But what’s more alarming is no reviews at all. It makes you wonder if the company has been around long enough (or is qualified enough) to be considered for the job at hand. With some due diligence on your part, you should be able to see a trend in the volume of reviews: a majority of good reviews means you probably have a reputable mold inspection company under consideration. Also, make sure the company actually responds the reviews. If a company ignores any review, it could mean a company lacks the appreciation for every customer served. A popular subscription-based consumer review site is Angie’s List. Reviews are provided by real people that pay to be on the site. There is a mutual understanding among members that the reviews are only useful if they are truthful. A paid subscription-based consumer site means members have a vested interest in providing genuine reports because s/he will be depending on other reviews when making his/her hiring decision. Other popular review sites are Better Business Bureau, Google Maps, and Yelp.

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   How to Hire A Mold Inspector in Los Angeles:

   • Verify Los Angeles mold inspector’s experience and mold credentials
   • Inquire about the type of equipment that is used for Los Angeles mold inspections
   • Cross reference the Los Angeles mold inspection company by getting references from past customers that have posted reviews about their experience with the mold inspection company.

10. Same Day Mold Testing, Inc. Provides Excellent Customer Service!

    December 19, 2013 9:19 am Leave a Comment

    Same Day Mold Testing, Inc. earns Esteemed 2013 Angie’s List Super Service Award

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    Award reflects company’s consistently high level of customer service

    

    Same Day Mold Testing, Inc. has earned the service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting an exemplary year of service provide to members of the consumer review service in 2013.

    “We are truly humbled by receiving our 4th consecutive Super Service Award. It is a great acknowledgement of our commitment to providing high levels of customer service to families and business throughout Southern California. We are greatly appreciative of this coveted award.” Same Day Mold Testing, Inc.

    “Only about 5 percent of the companies Same Day Mold Testing, Inc. competes with in Southern California are able to our Super Service Award,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “It’s a mark of consistently great customer service.”

    Angie’s List Super Service Award 2013 winners have met strict eligibility requirements, which include an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade, and review period jade; the company must be in good standing with Angie’s List, have a fully complete profile, pass a background check and abide by Angie’s List operational guidelines.

    Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List. Companies are graded on an A through F scale in areas ranging from price to professionalism to punctuality. Members can find the 2013 Super Service Award logo next to company name in search results on AngiesList.com.