The answer to, ‘how much does a mold inspection cost?’ depends on the size of the mold contamination. However, you can read more about its average price below.
Beyond the price of mold inspection, you will learn when to inspect for mold. Also, you’ll be informed on what to do during and after the mold investigation.
When Do You Inspect For Mold?
Mold grows in visible and hidden places. Moreover, despite them being obvious, there is a significant possibility that they may be growing inside your house’s structures. Hence, it is crucial to have your home inspected for mold, especially when you are in the following situations:
Visible mold
Visible mold may be either white, blue, or black growing on a part of your house. If you notice such mold, then it may be time for an inspection.
White mold tends to grow in cool environments, like walls. It is easy to mistake white mold for mineral deposits, so be more discerning.
It’s easy to differentiate the two. If it dissolves when sprayed with water, then it is a mineral deposit. If the white form does not dissolve, then it is white mold.
Blue mold is generally found in damp areas, like your bathroom. Also, you can clean them with a household detergent if they grow on surfaces like bathtubs.
Lastly, black mold is a common mold that grows on wood, plaster, and insulation. Despite being typical, it has a toxic counterpart — Stachybotrys chartarum.
Toxic black mold is quite costly to remove. Also, exposure to it for an extended period can cause health problems.
Unoccupied houses
The reason why unoccupied houses tend to house mold is because of humidity build-up. Note this when you’re buying a new home. If the house is unoccupied for too long and wasn’t ventilated well, you may need to do a mold inspection.
New home
Water damage may be so elusive that sometimes the seller is not aware of it. Since water damage inevitably results in mold, it would be good to do a mold inspection.
To better inform yourself on the seriousness of this matter, read this article on what to do when you bought a water damaged house.
After remediation
The mold inspection after remediation should be part of your home maintenance routine. Mold inspection should be a part of your maintenance routine because remediation is quite costly, as you will know later. The remediation will be a waste if you do not keep your house mold-free after it.
Water damage
Water damage is the ultimate source of mold since it gives them an environment to thrive. Hence, if you notice signs of water damage, it would be good to have a mold inspection done, too.
Costs of mold inspection
For small to medium-sized houses, the average mold inspection expense is between $300 and $400. If your home is more sizeable than 4000 square feet, the cost may reach $900.
The main factors that affect the cost of mold investigation are the house size and the inspection process. The specific inspection process that may affect the cost is an invasive investigation—one where an inspector needs to remove parts of your house’s structures.
You can read more about the inspection process below.
1. During the mold inspection
Mold inspections only require simple tools. Sometimes, a flashlight is enough. However, in situations wherein HVAC systems need to be looked into, you may need some additional tools to open them up.
For hard-to-reach areas, inspectors may opt to use cameras. Moreover, to test excessive moisture in a particular area, they may also use a moisture meter.
None of the mentioned items are particularly advanced. However, expertise is still needed in mold inspection.
The first thing that an inspector would do during the mold investigation is talk with the owner about mold or water-damaged areas. After coordinating with the owner about suspected areas with mold, the inspector will check the mentioned areas.
Sometimes mold is not visible. Hence the inspector may ask if they can cut a piece of drywall. Cutting drywall or paneling would give them better access and thoroughly investigate the mold growth in your home.
If there is mold, the next step would be to find the source of water damage or moisture. The final step of the mold inspection is the same as the first; the inspector would talk to the homeowner. However, this time they will discuss and develop mold remediation or removal plans.
2. After the mold inspection
First, the source of mold and water damage is eliminated. Then, the affected surface is washed and disinfected.
If the mold contamination occurred only in a small area, then you can do it yourself. To understand mold cleaning procedures, read this article on how to clean mold from air conditioner coils.
However, if the contamination is more than ten square feet, then you may need professional help. As mentioned above, remediation costs are expensive. They may range from $3000 and can reach up to $20000.
Conclusion
Mold is damaging to your home and your health. This is why it is natural to know how much does a mold inspection cost to see if they’re present in your home. We hope this article about mold inspection will help you with your mold problems at home!