A professional mold remediation company can inspect a home for mold and determine the appropriate treatment. Mold is caused by moisture and can often be hidden behind walls or tiles, making mold inspection necessary to pinpoint its location. Left untreated, mold can spread and cause health-related issues to residents of a home.
Editor’s Note: If you are experiencing the symptoms of mold exposure, which includes coughing, sneezing, congestion, and shortness of breath per the CDC, it’s best to consult a medical professional.
Discovering mold in your home can feel like a punch to the gut, especially when you’re not sure where it’s coming from or how serious it is. From my own experience, a musty smell lingering in a corner of the house was the first clue something was off, and it led me to dig deeper. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, about 60% of homes in humid climates have some level of mold growth, often due to poor ventilation or unresolved water leaks. A pro tip I’ve learned is to check your home’s humidity levels regularly—keeping them below 50% can stop mold in its tracks. If you’re dealing with a recent flood or leak, don’t wait; mold can start growing within 24-48 hours. Calling in a professional not only pinpoints the problem but also gives you peace of mind with a clear plan to tackle it.
Q: There’s a weird smell in my house that I think might be mold. I don’t know who to call for mold inspection—is it a plumber or some other type of contractor? And can I get a mold inspection for free, or will I have to pay?
The suspected presence of mold, whether it’s visible or not, can be worrisome when it’s encountered in the home. However, a mold inspection can allay these fears and help determine a plan of action. Whether you need to know how to get rid of black mold or just experienced major leaking or flooding and want to ensure no mold has formed, the following steps can help ensure a home is safe and free from major mold issues. Read on to learn who to call for mold inspection and more helpful information about mold.
That musty smell you’re noticing? It’s like an alarm bell for mold. I had a friend who ignored a similar smell after a pipe leak, and it turned into a costly mess. The CDC notes that mold-related health issues can hit sensitive groups—like kids or those with asthma—harder, so it’s worth acting fast. A practical tip is to start by checking areas prone to dampness, like basements or bathrooms. If you’re unsure, don’t call a plumber; they’re great for pipes but not mold experts. Instead, look for certified mold inspectors, ideally ones accredited by groups like the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI). As for free inspections, be cautious—some companies might push unnecessary fixes to pad their profits.
You can hire a mold inspection and remediation company to inspect your home.
The first call to make when a mold problem is suspected in a home is a mold inspection and remediation company. These professionals have seen it all and will have both the experience and the equipment to inspect a home for mold. Mold inspection services are done both on single rooms and entire homes, depending on what is needed. Mold inspection services can be particularly beneficial if there has been a water or flooding issue, as mold could be forming where it’s not immediately visible. Mold inspections can cost anywhere from $300 to $500 and can take 2 to 6 hours to complete. Testing can cost an additional $200 to $350. The inspector may also perform a basic mold air test. These tests will determine if any remediation services are needed.
When I had a mold scare after a basement flood, hiring a remediation company was a game-changer. They used fancy tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to find mold I’d never have spotted. Fun fact: the Indoor Air Quality Association says nearly 70% of mold issues stem from hidden water damage, like behind drywall. If you’re budgeting, factor in that extra testing cost—it’s worth it to know exactly what you’re dealing with. My advice? Ask the inspector upfront if they’re certified and if their tests include both air and surface sampling. It’ll save you from surprises down the line.
If mold is visible, a mold inspection isn’t necessary.
The most dangerous mold is the type that is hidden in plain sight. If you smell mold but can’t see it, that’s likely a sign that mold is growing underneath or behind surfaces in your home. These are the instances where a professional mold inspection is warranted. Visible mold, although sometimes alarming, means a professional mold inspection isn’t necessary since treatment for mold is the same, regardless of what type it is. In most cases, visible mold can be treated with DIY solutions, depending on the surface. If the visible mold is gone but a moldy smell persists, there might still be some hidden mold.
Seeing mold on your walls can freak you out, but it’s often easier to handle than the hidden stuff. I once tackled a small patch in my bathroom with a vinegar solution, and it worked like a charm. Studies show vinegar can kill about 80% of mold species, making it a solid DIY option for small spots. But if you clean visible mold and that musty smell sticks around, don’t ignore it—it could mean trouble behind the scenes. A quick tip: always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning mold, even small amounts, to avoid breathing in spores. If the patch is bigger than a dinner plate, call in the pros to be safe.
Some companies may offer free mold inspections, but there’s a catch.
Wondering if there’s a method for how to get a free mold inspection? Customers will want to be wary of professionals who advertise or offer free mold inspections, since they likely have a financial incentive to find issues in a home that only they can fix. Because a level of mold is present in every home, these companies won’t be outright lying if they claim to discover mold in the air or on surfaces. However, no current thresholds exist that determine if a concentration of mold is hazardous, so if you don’t smell mold in the home, it’s likely not an issue that needs to be addressed. A health department mold inspection may be the best bet for a fair, unbiased report of mold in a home. There are also mold inspection companies that don’t perform remediation work, which minimizes their financial incentive to find mold in a home.
I fell for a “free inspection” ad once, and the guy tried to upsell me on a $2,000 remediation job for what turned out to be minor surface mold. The EPA warns that some companies use free inspections as a bait-and-switch tactic, so always get a second opinion. A good move is to contact your local health department—many offer low-cost or even free inspections with no strings attached. If you go with a private company, pick one that only inspects and doesn’t profit from remediation. It’s like choosing a mechanic who doesn’t sell you parts—less chance of being taken for a ride.
Mold is a fungal growth that forms on damp or decaying natural matter.
Sometimes referred to as mildew, mold is generally the result of excess moisture. Indoor mold spores float through the air and reproduce once they land on a favorable surface that allows them to grow and form new mold colonies. Mold feeds on organic or decaying material, so it’s common to find it on drywall or wood. Although some molds can produce toxins, molds themselves are not poisonous or toxic. Mold inside the home can still pose a health risk, however, for people with allergies, respiratory diseases or infections, or asthma. And although some level of mold will always be present and mold cannot completely be removed from the home, the best way to prevent or control the growth of mold is to eliminate sources of moisture.
Mold is sneaky—it thrives in damp spots like nobody’s business. I learned this the hard way when I found it creeping up my basement walls after a humid summer. Research from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences shows mold spores can double in number every 24 hours in ideal conditions, so keeping things dry is key. A practical trick is to run a dehumidifier in problem areas; I keep one in my basement, and it’s cut down on that damp vibe big time. Also, check your ventilation—bathroom and kitchen fans are your first line of defense against moisture buildup.
Exposure to mold can cause a variety of health problems.
Congestion, wheezing, and red or puffy eyes are just some of the symptoms that exposure to mold can cause in those who are sensitive to it. Workers who have direct and extended exposure to large amounts of mold are likely to see more severe reactions such as fever and shortness of breath. Some recent studies even linked early exposure to mold to the development of childhood asthma, especially among kids who are genetically susceptible to respiratory conditions.
Mold can hit you like a bad cold that won’t quit. I know someone whose kid started wheezing every time they played in a moldy basement—scary stuff. The World Health Organization says about 15% of people are sensitive to mold, with kids and older folks being most at risk. If you’ve got asthma or allergies, even a small amount can make you miserable. My go-to advice? If you’re feeling off and suspect mold, keep a symptom diary to share with your doctor. It helped my friend figure out the mold was the culprit, not just seasonal allergies.
Mold testing can be performed on air and surface samples.
Most mold testing requires taking samples of either the air or surfaces in a home to figure out what type of mold is present or whether it’s likely to spread and cause more damage. Air samples use a spore trap, which has a sticky surface on a strip to capture the spores that travel through the air. The strip is then sent to a laboratory for analysis and results. Surface samples can be tested using one of three methods: bulk, swab, or tape. In a bulk sample, a piece of the surface is removed and sent to a lab for testing. For a swab sample, the area in question is swabbed with a sterile material, and the swab is then sent to a mold testing laboratory. With tape samples, a piece of tape is pressed against a surface that has mold present, then lifted and sent to a lab for results. It’s important to note that determining the exact strain is not important when treating mold, as all molds are tackled in the same manner. Customers will want to be wary of companies that attempt to make their services look more valuable by claiming to treat various molds in specific ways.
I was surprised to learn how high-tech mold testing can get—those air traps are like something out of a sci-fi movie. The American Industrial Hygiene Association says air sampling can detect mold spores at concentrations as low as 10 per cubic meter, which is wild. If you’re doing a DIY test, I’d suggest the tape method for visible mold; it’s simple and less messy than cutting out chunks of your wall. Just don’t fall for companies hyping up “specialized” treatments for different molds—it’s usually a marketing ploy. Stick to the basics: identify, remove, and prevent.
Mold inspection costs an average of $650.
Mold inspections cost about $650, regardless of whether it is a black mold inspection or an apartment mold inspection. A mold inspection is typically the best first step in determining how extensive a mold problem is and whether major remediation needs to be done to make the space safe again. For those who’d like to sidestep the cost of a professional inspection and try to perform a home mold inspection themselves, the best mold test kits range in price from $30 to $90 and can be purchased easily online. DIY mold testing can be useful and more cost-effective if the suspected mold is contained to certain areas, like a bathroom or under the kitchen sink. However, it’s important to remember that the results can vary and in some cases can even be inaccurate if the tested material comes in contact with other airborne contaminants. Customers will want to closely follow directions to ensure accurate results.
That $650 price tag for a professional inspection can sting, but it’s often worth it for peace of mind. I tried a $40 DIY test kit once, and while it was easy to use, I botched the sample by not sealing it properly—lesson learned. Data from HomeAdvisor shows that costs can climb to $1,000 for larger homes or complex cases, so get a few quotes before committing. My tip? If you go DIY, pick a kit with clear instructions and lab analysis included. It’s cheaper than a pro, but only if you do it right.
Professionals should treat large or widespread areas of mold.
One small area of mold can be treated with DIY methods, but any widespread areas that have mold should be handled by a professional. The EPA recommends professional mold inspection and treatment for patches of mold larger than 10 square feet. Homes that have experienced major water leaks or flooding will most likely need the help of a remediation specialist who can not only find where the mold is growing but also remove it and put measures in place to prevent it from coming back. The best mold removal companies will also have the required equipment, such as industrial fans, to help with airing out the space. Plus, if they have to remove drywall or go through walls, they’ll be able to repair the areas afterward.
I once thought I could handle a big mold patch myself—big mistake. It spread faster than I could keep up. The EPA’s 10-square-foot rule is a solid guideline; anything bigger than a small rug needs a pro. Remediation companies often use HEPA vacuums and antimicrobial sprays, which are way more effective than my old spray bottle of vinegar. A friend of mine saved thousands by catching a mold issue early after a flood, thanks to a pro who sealed off the area to stop spores from spreading. If your home’s been through water damage, don’t skimp—call someone with the right gear.
The lines can be blurry when it comes to responsibility for mold treatment in a rented property.
Unfortunately, building codes and other ordinances don’t clearly define who is responsible for treating mold in rental properties. However, renters can check the rules and regulations concerning mold by looking at their state’s department of environmental protection or their state department of public health’s website. If legislation is in place, renters can look to those guidelines to figure out next steps. However, even if the state doesn’t have current legislation regarding mold, state law may require the landlord to fix a serious mold problem or the tenant may be able to withhold rent if the space is no longer considered safe or livable. On the flip side, if any evidence of mold is a result of tenant behavior, such as failing to maintain cleanliness or creating high humidity, landlords won’t be on the hook for repairs or scheduling a free mold inspection for renters. In fact, some leases even include clauses that relieve landlords from liability from mold growth, so it’s wise to read the fine print when signing a lease.
Dealing with mold as a renter can feel like a legal maze. I had a landlord try to pin mold on me because I didn’t run the bathroom fan enough, but a quick check of my state’s health department site showed they were responsible for pre-existing issues. The National Low Income Housing Coalition says about 30% of renters face mold-related disputes with landlords, so know your rights. My advice? Document everything—photos, emails, even humidity readings. If your lease has a mold clause, read it twice. And if the problem’s bad, don’t be afraid to escalate to your local housing authority for backup.
Mold can be controlled and prevented.
The good news about mold is that you can take specific measures to prevent it or treat it if it presents itself in the home. The best way to keep mold from spreading inside a house is to keep humidity levels low, ideally around 50 percent. One of the best hygrometers can display the air’s current humidity levels. Air conditioners and dehumidifiers also go a long way in ensuring the air in the home is less humid. If prevention methods still can’t keep mold at bay, you can certainly call professional mold inspection and testing services.
Keeping mold at bay is all about staying one step ahead of moisture. I started using a hygrometer after noticing dampness in my laundry room, and it’s been a lifesaver—mine hovers around 45% now, thanks to a dehumidifier. Studies show that homes with consistent humidity below 50% see up to 80% less mold growth. A trick I swear by is cracking a window when cooking or showering to let steam escape. If you’re in a humid area, consider a dehumidifier with a continuous drain so you’re not emptying it every day. Small habits like these can save you a big headache later.
Air purifiers can help prevent the spread of mold, but they won’t treat mold on surfaces.
For those concerned about mold in the home, air purifiers provide one way to help reduce the spread of mold spores in the air. However, these machines can only keep those spores from landing on surfaces where they can grow and become a bigger issue—they don’t treat any active mold that is already growing on windowsills or underneath the kitchen sink. Once the space has been tested and treated for mold, an air purifier with a HEPA filter will be the best bet for capturing mold particles and preventing them from proliferating.
I got an air purifier after a mold scare, and while it’s great for keeping the air cleaner, it didn’t touch the mold already on my windowsill. HEPA filters can trap up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including mold spores, according to the EPA. But for active mold, you’ll still need to scrub or call a pro. My tip? Place the purifier in high-traffic areas like your living room or bedroom, and clean the filter regularly to keep it working. It’s a solid backup, but not a cure-all.
FAQs
Q. How do I get my house tested for mold?
You can hire a mold inspection or remediation company, or you can use a DIY test kit for small areas of suspected mold.
Q. What are the signs of mold sickness?
Congestion, wheezing, and red or puffy eyes are just some of the symptoms that exposure to mold can cause in those who are sensitive to it. Workers who have direct and extended exposure to large amounts of mold are likely to see more severe reactions, such as fever and shortness of breath.
Q. How long does it take to get sick from mold exposure?
Symptoms can appear 2 to 9 hours after exposure and last for 1 to 3 days.
Q. Do air purifiers help with mold?
Air purifiers provide one way to help reduce the spread of mold spores in the air. However, they can only clean up airborne spores—they don’t treat any active mold already growing on surfaces.
Q. Should I call a professional to get rid of mold?
The EPA recommends hiring a professional for mold remediation for areas of mold larger than 10 square feet.
Q. What does toxic mold look like?
Black mold is the most common toxic mold that comes to mind, and while its name suggests a black color, it can also be blue, gray, or green. Black mold looks like an irregular stain.
Q. What kills black mold instantly?
It’s not necessarily possible to kill mold instantly, but vinegar is one of the more effective mold-killing solutions as it kills the surface layer and the underlying membrane.
Q. Can I sue my landlord for mold?
You may be able to sue your landlord for mold if you have any losses relating to mold, such as a health problem or property damage.
These FAQs hit the nail on the head for most mold worries. I’ve had friends ask me about black mold after seeing a scary patch in their rental, and my go-to advice is to snap a photo and get it checked, especially if it’s bigger than a small spot. The CDC says prolonged exposure to mold can worsen asthma in about 7% of cases, so don’t brush off symptoms. If you’re renting, keep a paper trail of any mold complaints to your landlord—it could make or break your case if things escalate. And for killing mold, vinegar’s my favorite; it’s cheap and works better than most store-bought sprays.