How to Prepare for Your Mold Inspection: What You Need to Know

Mold inspections are essential to ensure the health and safety of your home or business. At PureHealth Mold Inspections, we aim to provide you with a thorough, detailed inspection. By following these preparation tips, you can help us ensure the most accurate and efficient inspection possible.

1. Clear Access to Key Areas

For a complete inspection, our team needs access to several areas of your property, including:

• Attics: Ensure the entry point is easily accessible and any stored items are moved away from inspection areas.

• Crawlspaces: If your property has crawlspaces, make sure they are free of obstacles.

• Basements: Remove stored items from walls and floors for better visibility.

• HVAC systems and vents: Mold can grow in HVAC systems, so ensure clear access to units and visible vents.

• Plumbing areas: Clear around sinks, toilets, and any water-related fixtures to allow proper inspection of moisture-prone areas.

2. Provide a History of Water Damage

Mold thrives in areas previously affected by water damage. Letting your inspector know about any history of water-related issues can help them focus on the most vulnerable areas. Be prepared to share:

• Dates of water damage or leaks and areas affected.

• Repairs that were made and any moisture problems you’ve noticed since.

Suggested Image: An example of water damage near a window or a plumbing leak.

3. Make Sure Utilities Are On

To ensure a full inspection, make sure all utilities—water, power, and HVAC—are turned on, especially if the property is vacant. This helps us test moisture levels and assess potential mold in affected areas.

4. Maintain a Comfortable Temperature

Proper indoor temperature control is important for an accurate mold inspection. Keep the temperature at a normal, comfortable level so that areas affected by temperature and humidity, such as HVAC systems, can be evaluated effectively.

5. Don’t Ventilate Excessively Before the Inspection

In the hours leading up to the inspection, avoid using fans, air purifiers, or opening too many windows. Excessive ventilation can affect the accuracy of air sampling, leading to misleading results. Natural ventilation without added airflow systems is best.

6. Take Photos of Visible Mold or Problem Areas

If you’ve already noticed visible mold or moisture issues, take photos before the inspection. These can help document conditions and can also assist the inspector if repairs have been made prior to the inspection but you want to ensure that area is reviewed.

7. Look for Hidden Signs of Moisture

Even if there’s no visible mold, subtle signs of moisture can indicate areas where mold might be growing. Check for condensation on windows, small water stains, or dampness under sinks and around plumbing. Inform your inspector of any such findings.

8. Remove Items from Damp Areas

Items stored in damp areas, such as basements or under sinks, can block access to potential mold growth spots. Remove stored items in these areas so the inspector can conduct a full evaluation. This also helps prevent mold from growing on your stored belongings.

9. Make Arrangements for Pets and Children

If you have pets or young children, consider making arrangements for them during the inspection. This ensures their safety as inspectors use sensitive equipment and allows us to work more efficiently.

10. Be Informed and Ask Questions

Your inspection is more valuable when you’re fully informed. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before, during, or after the inspection. Whether you want to understand testing methods, results, or recommendations, we’re here to provide the information you need to feel confident in the process.

11. Prepare for Potential In-Depth Testing

In some cases, invasive techniques may be required to assess hidden mold growth, such as drilling small holes for borescope access or collecting bulk samples. We’ll explain any procedures in advance and get your approval before proceeding. Understanding that these steps may be necessary can help avoid surprises.

Final Thoughts

Following these tips will help ensure a smooth and thorough mold inspection. At PureHealth Mold Inspections, we are dedicated to providing the most accurate results with the least disruption to your property. If you have any questions before your inspection, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!