Homespec
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Visual Inspection:
Many experts agree that the most important part of a mold inspection / investigation is a visual inspection. Because of the many variables involved with moisture in buildings. A visual inspection is the initial step in identifying possible contamination problems. It will identify any visible water leaks or moisture stains on ceilings, walls floors and under counters. The air conditioning system and heating systems will be visually inspected as well as the attic and crawl spaces. The extent of any water damage and mold growth shall be visually assessed by a certified mold inspector. This assessment is important to determine remedial strategies. Ventilation systems shall also be visually checked, particularly for damp filters but also for damp conditions elsewhere in the system, and for overall cleanliness. It is important that someone that has been trained and understands fundamentals of both fungus and building materials/construction conducts a thorough investigation. The use of equipment, such as a boroscope to view spaces in duct work or inside walls, and moisture meters to help identify sources of mold growth and the extent of water damage. Mold sampling will be recommended if there is any noticeable mold growth, musty odors, visible water damage or stains, poorly maintained HVAC systems or construction defects. By combining a visual inspection with air, tape or swab sampling, we can help identify the hidden source of mold, allergens and indoor pollutants and the extent of any acute or chronic water or moisture damage. Photo documentation can also be useful to inform and present the conditions at the time of inspection. Moisture Detection: If the moisture problems aren't addressed then the mold problems will return. Often the greatest portion of time in an inspection/investigation is determining how and where the moisture is coming from. Phase I Inspection: Preliminary Assessment: A quick, cost effective assessment to confirm mold growth, check for significant mold related air quality degradation or have a specific mold identified. Includes up to 3 samples (2 interior and 1 exterior) Brief visual inspection and preparation of a report containing a summary of field activities, the results of the inspection, photographs (if required), any pertinent findings or conclusions and recommendations will be prepared and submitted to you, the client. Additional samples $125.00 each This includes: Aerocell Spore Traps Culture Plate Bioaerosols Swabs & Bulk Samples (Culture samples can take 10 days.) If the contaminated area is limited in extent, the report may include recommendations needed to carefully start cleanup without further sampling or inspections. If mold contamination does exist and a remediation protocol is desired, Phase II Assessment may be needed to complete a protocol. Air Sampling: The purpose of air sampling is to determine the type and amount of airborne contamination in a building. Air sampling may be necessary if the presence of mold allergens or toxins is suspected but cannot be identified by a visual inspection. When air sampling is performed, both the indoor and outdoor air are sampled, so the results can be compared to see if a problem exists. Typically, the indoor sample is taken while the heating and/or air conditioning unit is operating, this will ensure the interior air is effectively tested. A certified inspector, trained in appropriate sampling methodology, shall perform all necessary air monitoring. Air monitoring is necessary if there is evidence from a visual inspection that the ventilation systems may be contaminated. The purpose of such air monitoring is to assess the extent of contamination throughout the building. Sampling should be conducted while ventilation systems are operating. Air monitoring is necessary if the presence of mold is suspected in a particular area of the structure (i.e. a microbial volatile odor is detected) but cannot be identified through a visual inspection or bulk sampling. The purpose of such air monitoring is to determine the location and/or extent of mold contamination. Air monitoring is also necessary if the building inhabitants are suffering from health problems which are or may be associated with fungal exposure. If air monitoring is performed, for comparative purposes, outdoor air samples should be collected concurrently at an air intake, if possible, and at a location representative of outdoor air. The outdoor control air test is very helpful in evaluating whether there is an internally generated mold problem. Such a problem may exist if indoor mold tests report mold levels that are either (a) higher than the outdoor control air test or (b) present indoors but absent from the outdoor control test. Tape Lift / Swab Sampling: Tape swab samples are usually collected from visibly moldy surfaces by wiping the area with a sterile swab. This type of sampling is used to identify specific mold types. Lab analysis is performed by a qualified 3rd party laboratory. The Lab is not open on weekends. Rush service is available to decrease wait time. Note: Rush service is only available for spore traps; culture plates still require 7 day incubation period. All laboratory testing will be done by:
Phase II Inspection Often further investigation is needed to ascertain the extent of mold contamination. Included are up to 5 samples (4 interior and 1 exterior), inspection and a detailed report. Get a specific protocol that your professional remediation company can use to start decontaminating the area. Including up to 3 hours of onsite activities such as: moisture detection, consulting, photo documentation and physical inspection. Further site inspection can be done if necessary at an hourly rate for inspection plus trip charge. Additional samples will be collected and analyzed. Sample Collection Services:
Once the home has a visual inspection and the mold circumstances have been evaluated, action can be planned to clean it up and prevent future contamination. Based upon site evaluations and sampling lab analysis results, we will provide a detailed written report that can be used for disclosure and references. In all situations if mold exists, the underlying cause must be corrected. Post Remediation (Clearance Testing): A must for insurance work, post sampling can demonstrate that significant improvements have been made, and to make sure that your mold remediation project has accomplished its goals. The most important part of the remediation (clean up) process is the clearance testing. This final testing procedure provides confirmation that the project has been satisfactorily remediated and that the contamination has not spread to other areas. Last but not least, if there is still contamination issues, we can help identify the problem and continue working with the remediation contractor to resolve any situation. If you have any questions concerning mold or pricing of services, feel free to contact us Please allow 24 hours for response. E-mail us at  Homespecny@aol.com |
 631-243-6642 or 516-942-0009
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