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Tag Archive: Certified Mold inspector

  1. Choose the Right Certified Mold Inspector

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    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.

  2. The Trouble with “Free” Mold Test Companies

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    Many one-stop mold inspection and remediation companies in the greater Los Angeles area entice customers with promises of “free” mold testing and low repair prices, but consumers often end up paying extra thousands in unnecessary repairs.

    Some clients believe they’re getting a deal by hiring a company that offers “free” or inexpensive mold testing, but think about it — nothing is free. A company offering both testing and remediation, unlike a test-only inspection company, has a financial incentive to find problems that may not really exist in your home, building or residential complex.

    “Free” Mold Test Problems

    Many companies offering free mold testing claim to find mold in your home, and then conveniently offer their own mold removal and repair services to fix the problem. What they will not tell you is that several types of mold are present in the air in every home or building. Both the levels and types of mold count, but that’s rarely specified by some unscrupulous companies. An independent test-only firm does not perform remediation work, and so does not have a conflict of interest. The only concern is to find the real trouble spots in your office, apartment building or residence.

    Possibly paying thousands of dollars for bloated repair estimates or an improper or unnecessary remediation for a problem that may not even exist doesn’t make sense. Hiring an independent, certified testing service won’t leave you with a bill for a problem you possibly never had.

    Mold Inspection Costs

    Mold inspection fees should be expected. It’s very rare for a company to perform anything for free and still remain in business. That would be a charity case. It normally costs upward of $100 or more for an inspection when dealing with a reputable firm. Think about the overhead expenses like labor, fuel, advertising and rent. While all such companies are in business to make a profit, it’s important to effectively serve their customers by presenting a timely mold inspection report prepared by an accredited laboratory versus a free opinion about a costly repair.

    Various types of mold sampling can cost more than $250, depending on the severity of the problem and the size of the building. However, they’re all necessary to determine the extent of the problem to establish future treatments. All of these tests and eventual recommendations are made by the mold inspector, based partly on tests, laboratory results, and other factors associated with the building and its occupants. To be an informed consumer, it’s important to only hire a trained, certified and experience-tested mold inspection company.

  3. Understanding the Cost of a Mold Inspection Test

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    Due to the variety of private homes, apartments and townhomes in the greater Los Angeles area, the cost of a mold inspection varies depending on the size of the property, level of mold inspection required, and the number of mold samples taken. Historically, price quotes have trended around $200 for an inspection and report, and about $100 per sample to test for mold.

    While a professional mold inspection for a typical family home doesn’t generally cost too much, testing larger homes and apartment complexes (5,000 or more square feet) can run anywhere from $1,000 and up. Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually involved in a mold inspection and how to choose the right inspection company.

    Mold Testing

    A legitimate mold inspection company only performs inspections — not repairs. It’s widely considered a conflict of interest to do both because “inspection and repair” companies often embellish the problem to inflate repair fees. Legitimate mold inspection companies do not offer “free” inspections — they charge clients at the time of the inspection. A test-only company will not recommend costly repairs unless they are necessary. If you believe you have a mold problem, hire a test-only mold inspection company, which will lower the possibility of being overcharged for mold repairs.

    The Difference: Mold Testing and Remediation

    Mold testing involves a number of variables, so knowing the difference between mold testing and repair is important. Mold testing is necessary for several reasons — the type of mold must be identified, along with the concentration levels. Additionally, the indoor air quality usually needs to be tested. Most of these types of samples usually cost about $100 because the inspector has them analyzed by an accredited laboratory that helps establish the extent of the problem and the potential work needed to clear it up. The number of samples taken vary from building to building based on the size of the residence and the severity of the problem. The difference between the two types of companies is that test-only mold inspectors don’t have a financial interest in performing any remediation work — they only provide lab results and an opinion on the extent of a problem.

    Choosing a Mold Inspection Company

    There are a number of organizations offering mold “certification,” some requiring only a fee or an online course to become a “certified” expert. Always make sure to check an inspector’s credentials for proof of certification from a recognized facility requiring training and experience in mold testing. Referrals are always available from the American Council for Accredited Certification.

  4. Is Mold Affecting Your Indoor Air Quality

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    While some molds are actually essential components of our ecosystem, excessive exposure to molds has been a human health issue for many years. Molds are found in every environment and their presence can be detected — indoors and outdoors — year-round. All mold growth is encouraged by warm, humid conditions, not uncommon in the warm Los Angeles area climate.

    Homeowners, landlords, building maintenance and management personnel should know who provides the most effective means of locating existing growths in order to prevent the damage to indoor air quality and possible health effects on family members or tenants.

    Mold Sensitivities

    Mold spores aren’t the only airborne irritants that affect indoor air quality, but some people are more sensitive to airborne mold spores. For these people, lengthy, repeated exposure can produce eye irritations, nasal stuffiness, wheezing or skin irritations. Others with serious allergies to mold or those with chronic respiratory illnesses may have more serious reactions, including fever, infections and shortness of breath.

    Air Sampling and Testing

    Airborne mold levels and indoor air quality are measured by collecting samples from the air, surfaces, bulk materials (drapes, furniture and clothing) and other areas. Test-only inspectors commonly collect four or five samples in order to investigate indoor air quality. Of course, the number of rooms in a home or residential building may influence the total number of samples an inspector takes.

    For example, in a kitchen with obvious staining under the sink, the inspector could easily justify taking four samples, including a surface sample of the stain, one behind the wall to test for hidden mold inside the cavity, a kitchen air sample and an outdoor sample for comparison. If you believe your indoor air quality is being compromised — especially by mold — always have samples taken by a certified, test-only mold inspector who will have the samples immediately analyzed by an independent, accredited laboratory.

    Growing Awareness

    While there are no federal statutes or regulations regarding mold and indoor air quality, the California Department of Public Health has created the State Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Program, the first in the country aimed at conducting research into the causes and control of indoor air pollution.

    All professionals agree that the first, most vital step in preventing mold is to remove the source of moisture. Stopping leaks, lowering indoor air humidity and complete cleanups in areas with leaks or flooding are key to preventing mold germination and growth.

  5. How Indoor Air Quality is Tested for Mold

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    Most people tend to think of air pollution as an outdoor threat, but it can be worse inside our homes. Healthy air is vital for a healthy home or apartment, so if you’ve noticed a new, musty odor in your Los Angeles area home, it may be time to have your indoor air quality tested.

    Whether a leaky pipe or another event caused water damage, the onset of a new, unpleasant aroma may indicate the presence of mold. Indoor air sampling can be a cost-effective way of discovering whether mold growth is creating unhealthy indoor conditions.

    Testing for Visible Mold

    Finding something suspicious under your kitchen sink doesn’t necessarily mean it’s mold. Homeowners and tenants are often misled into believing that any mold discovery immediately indicates the need for drastic action. However, finding signs of mold on a wall does not mean that mold spores are permeating the air you breathe.

    Unscrupulous mold removal companies commonly use visible signs of mold to justify performing expensive, often unnecessary repairs. Not every type of mold calls for ripping out walls, floors or ceilings — some are as easy to remove as wiping down a wall with an approved cleaning solution. Knowing exactly what you’re dealing with can easily mean the difference between laying out huge amounts of money in mold removal and repair costs or not.

    Your best bet is to contact a reputable, certified test-only mold inspection company to perform surface, cavity and air samples. Avoid companies that advertise testing and repair services. Many exaggerate problems and overcharge for solutions because they have a vested interest in both “finding” and “removing” mold — no matter how slight the contamination is or which type of mold is found.

    Finding Hidden Mold

    It’s easy to spot mold when there is surface evidence in certain areas, but mold also lurks in dark, undisturbed areas where it can grow rapidly and quietly. It’s not uncommon for mold to grow in voids behind walls or the ceiling, beneath floorboards or in dark attics and crawl spaces. While detecting hidden mold usually requires specialized equipment, a trained, certified mold inspector will have the equipment and experience to do the job.

    Hiring a test-only company will yield a better result for homeowners and property managers. There is no vested interest in the test results beyond ensuring concerned parties receive fair, professional results from a reputable laboratory.

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

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    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.

  7. What is Mold Remediation?

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    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.

  8. 3 Reasons for Same Day Mold Testing

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    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.

     

    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.

  9. Same Day Mold Testing Earns 2011 Angie’s List Super Service Award

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    Same Day Mold Testing has been awarded the prestigious 2011 Angie’s List Super Service Award, an honor bestowed annually on approximately 5 percent of all the businesses rated on the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews on local service and health providers.

    “It is an honor to be selected for the Angie’s List Super Service Award for two consecutive years! It is truly a testament of our commitment to providing excellent service, high value, and prudent guidance for indoor environmental hazards. We are thankful to have this recognition from members of a national leader in consumer review ratings. We trust the Award will convey trust and confidence when consumers hire Same Day Mold Testing for their indoor environmental assessments.” Jason Harris, CMI – Same Day Mold Testing.

    “Only a fraction of the businesses rated on Angie’s List can claim the sterling service record of being a Super Service Award winner because we set a high bar,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “The fact that Same Day Mold Testing can claim Super Service Award status speaks volumes about its dedication to consumers.”

    Angie’s List Super Service Award winners have met strict eligibility requirements including earning a minimum number of reports, an exemplary rating from their clients and abiding by Angie’s List operational guidelines.

    Ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List, but members can find the 2011 Super Service Award logo next to business name in search results on AngiesList.com.

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