Mold Sampling
Mold is a natural substance that can be found in the inside and outside of the home. There are many different types of mold. Some molds are proven to be hazardous to your health. The only way to identify mold is through laboratory testing. Because of this mold is technically and legally not part of a home inspection. However we here at Roots Home Inspection do look for both conditions and visible evidence as mold during the inspection.
EXAMPLE 1: If we see poor ventilation in the attics and we also see a mold like substance, than we are going to call it out as a mold like substance and write it in your report that way. At the point during the inspection that we see these conditions we will discuss them with the client. The client will have the option to request mold sampling. This includes us taking a swab test of the mold like substance visible. The charge for the service is 195 for the first sample. Additional samples are at a reduced cost of 95
OTHER Examples : We might see visible mold like substance in the basement. Many times we see this mold like substance in the basement when there are water or humidity issues. Sometimes we see these issues also in the kitchens and bathrooms due to housekeeping issues. As noted above we will call the mold like substance out and discuss it with the client. We will include these finding in our report. Additionally the client will have the option to request swab sampling for the additional cost as noted above.
Another option for Mold Sampling is air quality testing. We do not perform this service but we have a subcontractor who can perform it for you. This service can be performed at the same time as the home inspection or at another time convenient to you and or your realtor Air quality testing includes taking a sample from the exterior air and also taking an air sample from the inside of the house. These samples are sent to the laboratory and results are provided the rates for this are as follows
- 100 general fee
- 200 required 2 samples ( one inside one outside )
- 100 each additional sample
Mold Summary
- Mold is not included in the standards for practice set by the State of New Jersey for Home Inspection
- Common problem areas for mold include attics with inadequate ventilation, basements prone to water penetration, and moisture-heavy areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- During our inspections, we will call out visible mold like substance. If detected than teh client will have the option to request mold sampling and labortory testing we take immediate action by cosamples for detailed laboratory analysis to determine the specific type and threat level.