VISUAL INSPECTION
- Throughout this phase the inspector is looking for three issues: evidence of previous or current moisture intrusion, evidence of mold growth and areas with a
potential for future mold infestation. Mold growth does not occur without moisture and for this reason much of the visual inspection emphasizes the search for moisture problems including a
reading of the relative humidity, utilization of a moisture meter on various surfaces, suspect areas and around plumbing. Some inspection utilizes advanced thermal imaging. An inspection typically covers the interior living space and
attic. Exterior surfaces are also examined for evidence of water damage/ intrusion and potential for future problem areas.
AIR SAMPLES
- Air sampling is the most effective method for determining whether a mold infestation is potentially creating a detrimental living environment. One or more exterior air
sample is collected for a baseline to compare the interior air samples against. An air pump is utilized to draw 15 liters of air per minute. Airborne particles are impacted and retained in a sampling
cassette. The sampling cassettes are sent to a laboratory where the mold spores are identified and counted. In some instances a “wallcheck” air sample is collected from the interior of a wall
to ascertain if mold growth is present in suspect areas.
SURFACE SAMPLES
- Surface sampling is used to identify a mold type at a specific location. This technique is also useful in ruling out possible discolorations or staining that sometimes
exhibit mold like characteristics. Typically a cotton swab or plastic slide with adhesive is used to collect a small quantity of material. The swab or slide is placed in a container and sent to
the same laboratory that analyzed the air samples mentioned above. .