Do you suspect that your home or business has mold contamination? Many Dallas-Fort Worth property owners request professional mold inspection services after spotting stains on walls or ceilings. However, mold growth isn’t always obvious, and it can successfully hide underneath floorboards, inside HVAC systems, and in other hard-to-see areas. So how can you tell if a mold inspection is necessary?
How to Detect Whether You Need a Mold Inspection
Hiring mold inspection experts can prevent costly repair work and ensure you don’t feel the physical effects of contamination. Here are some key situations where getting professionals involved makes sense.
1. Call for an Inspection if You Have Visible Mold Growth
The most obvious reason to request an assessment is when you can visibly see mold growing throughout the property. Avoid disturbing or “cleaning” any mold patches before an inspection, as this could further spread the spores. Instead, let specialists determine the extent and source of the mold.
2. Schedule a Mold Inspection After Water Damage or Leaks
While it might not be immediately clear, mold can begin growing within a day or two after a burst pipe, a leaking roof or a broken appliance. The best time for a mold inspection is after drying activities are completed, usually 48 hours after the water intrusion. After the leak has been fixed, inspectors can perform moisture mapping to find damp areas that are a threat. For leaks that have been active for over 48 hrs, call for a mold inspection right away!
3. Get a Professional Inspection if You Have Health Symptoms
Hidden mold growth can trigger persistent symptoms, including nasal congestion, headaches, coughing, fatigue and breathing difficulties. If your symptoms are noticeably worse at home or in the workplace, this is a clear sign that mold is an issue and that comprehensive testing is required.
4. Request a Mold Inspection Before Buying or Selling a Property
If you’re preparing to buy, sell or rent a property, a mold inspection can identify problems that may cause costly repairs or liability issues in the future. Professionals use a range of advanced technologies and systems, such as robotic sampling and high-resolution optical systems, to detect mold throughout a property. Additionally, a mold detection dog can help find hidden mold problems without the need for any invasive methods.
5. Consider an Inspection When Humidity or Ventilation Problems Persist
Humidity, condensation and ventilation issues are signs of the conditions that support mold growth. Even if you cannot see staining on indoor walls, if left unresolved for long enough, these conditions typically encourage mold growth.
6. Book a Clearance Inspection After Mold Remediation
A comprehensive mold clearance inspection takes place after mold remediation has been completed. You will need this type of inspection to confirm that active growth has been eliminated and the underlying causes of the mold have been resolved.
Best Mold Inspection Services in Dallas-Fort Worth
If you think your home or business is experiencing high levels of mold growth, contact Barrett Environmental for an inspection. We offer advanced mold testing and remediation protocols for commercial and residential clients in the DFW area. Call (214) 886-3108 or request an inspection.