Mold surveys on average can cost $300.00 to $700.00 for a residential dwelling. Mold inspection costs are contingent on size of the area evaluated and if mold sampling (surface or air sampling) is performed.
Thorough inspection include not only an experience mold inspector but include infrared evaluation to locate moisture
Commercial mold assessments can start around $600.00 and go into the thousands of dollars contingent on building size and sampling performed. Many commercial mold inspection include are sampling to assess overall air quality in the space. Health concerns driven by employees and tenants in leased spaces dictate compliant rooms where inspection is required. Vacant commercial spaces that are purchased or have new tenant leases often have mold assessment performed to assess mold risk and as baseline for overall air quality relative to mold. In short the longer a space is unoccupied, the greater the likelihood that mold growth will occur.
When is mold sampling necessary?
Mold sampling is completed to verify that a stained surface is mold or mold air sampling is performed to assess for hidden mold or general air quality.
The photo below shows stained wood supports and there was a question in the real estate transaction if the staining was or was not mold. Surface tape sampling was performed. Ultimately the staining was found to be mold, a red flag in the photo are the cobwebs, insects and mold both need moisture to thrive.
When is air sampling for mold necessary?
Many mold inspections are driven by a concern that water damage occurred in a space (either disclosed or suspected). When mold is suspected but not visible, air sampling is typically performed. You might have a newly renovated space, which would clearly conceal any evidence of mold either past or hidden, air sampling is very thorough way to evaluate the space. Even infrared may have a problem if the water source has been addressed, you moisture meters and infrared cameras no matter how expensive can only find moisture when present. Often times the water issue is repaired but the mold is not remediated.
The photo below shows air testing inside of a ceiling cavity. The property was under contract and the buyer found permits for demolition and rebuild of the space above due to a water leak. This portion of the dwelling which was a walk out room had been deconstructed walls and a sheetrock ceiling (newer with obvious repairs). Air testing was warranted at s the ceiling could not be visually inspected and the space was going to be finished by the new owner. Long story short, mold was found above the ceiling and remediation was performed at owner's experience.
Experienced mold professionals know the basis of any mold growth is that for Mold spores to grow the surface must be moist Dry areas will not have mold growth. Just as a room can have different temperatures so can the room have different humidity levels. The inside of wall cavities are ideal conditions for mold growth.
When do you perform a mold inspection or mold assessment?
- When purchasing a home
- Unexplained musty odors (mold growth off gassing)
- Spotting on possessions.
- Experiencing health concerns
- Water leak in office or home
- Buying a bank owned home.
- Buying a home that was flipped.
