Mold Sampling & Testing

We realize that everyone involved in a real estate transaction, from the agents to the buyers and sellers, can sometimes experience apprehension when mold is seen, smelled or otherwise discovered during a home inspection. One way to address this matter up front is to have a property professionally tested for mold by a licensed mold assessor if mold is known to be present or is suspected. Kelting Home Inspections offers mold sample and testing services. We can take surface samples and air samples to submit for laboratory testing. Upon receipt of the results of this testing (typically received in 48-72 hours), we will be able to educate you and your clients on the extent of the mold and available remedies. Once educated, clients often realize that their dreams of owning a particular home can still be fulfilled even if mold is discovered.

• Moisture control is the key to mold control, so when water leaks or spills occur indoors, ACT QUICKLY. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried within 24 to 48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases, mold will not grow.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building's foundation so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
• Keep air-conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
• Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60% relative humidity (ideally, between 30% to 50%). Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, which is a small, inexpensive instrument (from $10 to $50) that is available at many hardware stores.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes, ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.

Actions that will help to reduce humidity

• Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers, stoves, and kerosene heaters, to the outdoors, where possible. (Combustion appliances, such as stoves and kerosene heaters, produce water vapor and will increase the humidity unless vented to the outside.)
• Use air conditioners and/or dehumidifier when needed.
• Run the bathroom fan or open the window when showering. Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking, running the dishwasher or dishwashing, etc.

Actions that will help prevent condensation

• Reduce the humidity (see above).
• Increase ventilation and air movement by opening doors and/or windows, when practical. Use fans as needed.
• Cover cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes, with insulation.
• Increase air temperature.

Suspicion of Hidden Mold You may suspect hidden mold if a home smells moldy but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and residents are reporting health problems. Mold may hide in places such as the backside of drywall, wallpaper or paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, or the underside of carpets and pads, etc. Other possible locations of hidden mold include areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation). Testing or Sampling for Mold

Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in sampling methods, and interpreting results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations.

Wesley Bulifant, Owner & Inspector

Florida Licensed Home Inspector & Mold Assessor

License HI7956 & MRSA2484

Kelting Home Inspections & Services, LLC

PO Box 510058

Punta Gorda, FL 33951

(941) 655-8888

www.KeltingHomeInspections.com