One of the most important priorities of a Silk professional home inspector is that we are always on the lookout for moisture intrusion and a lack of proper ventilation, the two main factors responsible for the development of mold. Mold assessments can be useful in limited cases such as if the home was renovated after being in a flood but for the average homeowner or home buyer mold assessments are simply a way for home inspection companies to increase their bottom line at your expense. We simply don’t offer mold assessments because we are always on the lookout for the conditions that create mold and we feel that’s not something you have to pay us extra to tell you.
Mold is a common problem that can occur in any building, especially in areas with high humidity or moisture. Mold can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma. It can also damage building materials, leading to costly repairs.
In recent years, there has been an increase in companies offering mold assessments or mold testing services. These assessments involve a professional inspecting the building for signs of mold and taking air or surface samples to test for the presence of mold spores.
While mold assessments may seem like a good idea, there are several reasons why they may not be worth the expense.
First, mold is everywhere. Mold spores are present in the air and on surfaces, and they can easily be carried from one area to another. This means that even if a mold assessment shows that there is no mold present in one area, it does not necessarily mean that there is no mold in other areas of the building.
Second, mold assessments can be expensive. Depending on the size of the building and the extent of the assessment, the cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. This expense may not be justified if there is no evidence of mold or if the mold is easily remediated.
Third, mold assessments may not provide useful information. While the presence of mold can be concerning, it does not necessarily mean that it is causing health problems or that it needs to be removed. The type and quantity of mold present can also be important factors to consider, but this information may not be included in a standard mold assessment.
Finally, mold assessments may not be necessary. In many cases, mold can be easily remediated by addressing the underlying moisture problem and cleaning the affected area. If there is no evidence of mold or if the mold is easily remediated, a mold assessment may be an unnecessary expense.
In conclusion, while mold can be a serious problem, mold assessments may not always be necessary or worth the expense. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, it may be more cost-effective to address the underlying moisture issue and clean the affected area rather than paying for a professional assessment. However, it is always important to prioritize your health and safety, so if you have any concerns about mold in your building, it may be best to consult with a Silk professional home inspector.