Choose the Right Certified Mold Inspector

The same care used when choosing a general contractor should be used when searching for a certified mold inspector. All too often, finding a certified, test-only mold inspector is a challenge with so many companies to choose from in the greater Los Angeles area. Despite this, you can stack the odds in your favor by contacting more than one company and preparing yourself to ask the following questions.

Are You a Certified Mold Inspector?

This is the most vital question to ask because the mold inspection industry is not regulated by the government. Unfortunately, that means that many organizations claiming to provide certifications aren’t professionally qualified to do so. They do little more than offer online “mold inspection” courses, charge fees, and administer the most basic tests. These “certifications” ultimately provide little value to anyone concerned because they don’t require actual training or field experience. The American Council for Accredited Certifications (ACAC) requires mold inspectors to pass high-level tests and also requires evidence of field experience before certifying a mold inspector.

What Are Your Credentials?

While the ACAC is the most nationally recognized certification organization in the country, there are several types of certifications and just as many reputable organizations that provide them. Here are some additional reputable certifications:

• Home, Building Inspection and Building Science Certification (National Inspection Certification)
• Certified Indoor Environmentalist or Comparable (CIE) -The American Council for Accredited Certification
• Water Restoration Technician (WRT) — (IICRC Certification)
• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) — (IICRC Certification)

An important additional credential is proof that the inspection company carries worker’s compensation and professional liability insurance. Inspectors should also be members in good standing with at least one nationally recognized industry association. It’s easy to verify a mold inspector’s certification and the company’s trade association membership.

Always ask for (and verify) the length of a test-only mold inspector’s work experience and several references from previous clients. The number and types of inspections performed annually are good indications as to the scope of the inspector’s experience.

What Types of Equipment Do You Use?

At the very least, a competent mold inspector should have a moisture meter, respirator, an air sampling pump, protective equipment and clothing, and sampling media. Examples of the latest technology include a thermal imaging camera for detecting temperature variations caused by moisture and sophisticated air testing equipment.

Choosing a certified mold inspector takes a little due diligence and a few knowledgeable questions.