South Florida Mold Testing, Inspection, Detection and Consulting Experts. Let Mold Detection Services help you through your mold problems. Call 866.654.6653(MOLD)
Here in South Florida, we have several factors that lead to mold growth in our tropical environment. Molds, commonly called mildews (sometimes referred to as "black mold") are a subset of fungi that produce fluffy or powdery growth on surfaces. Molds grow on any porous and semi-porous surface, which include but are not limited to: concrete, wallpaper, metal, cloth, carpet, leather, wood, sheet rock, baseboards and insulation (including growth on human foods) when moist conditions exist.
Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Inside a non-viable air testing cassette (Zefon 5 or Air-O-Cell) is a glass slide that collects the spores for lab analysis.
Mold spores flow through indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.
Molds usually grow in damp places, behind walls, under floors, above ceiling tiles, and behind shower walls. Water is the key because without it, molds cannot grow, much less spread. When water is left to sit for even 24 hours, mold infestation begins. If water continues to sit and areas become completely saturated, the ideal environment is created for toxic molds to grow, such as Stachybotrys.
Allergic Reactions People Can Have To Mold Spores:
Respiratory problems, such as wheezing, and difficulty in breathing
Molds may grow at high levels indoors in a home or building, if the right environmental conditions exist. Factors that influence mold growth include: moisture sources, improperly ventilated bathrooms, high humidity levels, broken pipes and washing machine hoses, floods, leaking roofs, leaking exterior siding products, and leaking windows and doors.
Stachybotrys chartarum is a fungus that has become notorious as a mycotoxin producer that can cause animal and human mycotoxicosis. Indeed, over the past 15 years in North America, evidence has accumulated implicating this fungus as a serious problem in homes and buildings and one of the causes of the "sick building syndrome."
Be aware of any noxious odors. When a mold colony is growing, it can give off distinctive odors that are the by-product of its metabolism.
What Is Air Sampling ? - Indoor Air Quality Testing Information
Indoor Air Samples are usually performed in order to test for nonviable (dead) mold spores. Testing for nonviable mold is done by microscopic examination of the sample to identify fungal and non-fungal particles that may be allergenic to individuals. Other particles such as: fiberglass, insect fragments, rusts, dirt and more are also detected during non-viable testing. This is the quickest way to test for airborne mold spores and other harmful particles.
Testing for viable (living) mold is done by placing the sample onto agar culture medium that supports the growth of the organism(s) in question and allows identification of the species and level of contamination. This takes more time and is more costly.
When colonization occurs one mold has overtaken your entire home. Colonization is the formation of compact population groups of the same type of mold species.
What IsBulk Sampling: Bulk samples include, but are not limited to, chunks of carpet, insulation, and wallboards. Bulk samples are collected from visibly moldy surfaces by scraping or cutting materials with a clean tool and placing the sample into a petri dish for testing.
What IsSurface Sampling: Surface samples are collected by wiping a measured area with a sterile swab or by lifting a sample with bio tape. The surface sample is cultured and then placed into a petri dish. Surface samples are collected by wiping a measured area with a sterile swab or by lifting a sample with bio tape. The surface sample is cultured and then placed into a petri dish. The petri dish is inspected by a lab technician under a microscope so that the fungi can be removed and identified by species.
BACTERIAL TESTING SERVICES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE Same Day Test Results Available- Standard is 24 - 48 hours
Beware of inspection and mold services company that do not carry insurance. The first question you should be asking any inspection company is to send you a copy of their insurance. Always protect your biggest asset and never take a chance of letting an uninsured inspector or company into your home. The State of Florida has passed a law that makes carrying Liability, Errors & Omissions and Workers Comp a mandatory requirement for inspection firms and services. Do not take a chance of letting an uninsured inspector fall off a ladder, slip on your stairs or any other accident occur in your home leaving you vulnerable to frivolous law suits. Only hire fully insured and certified companies to perform work at your home or office.
Mold Detection Services of South Florida offers fully insured mold (fungi) testing, inspection, detection and prevention services. 866.654.MOLD(6653) or 305.571.2280
Please call Mold Detection Services to ask for a copy of our insurances before hiring the top mold services company in South Florida to help you with your mold related issues. Our Certified Mold Experts can assist you through the entire project. We will not be involved in the actual remediation of the mold because that would be a conflict of interest.
Do not hire a mold testing and inspection company that also cleans up the mold. It is unethical and also a law has been passed that makes doing both illegal in the State of Florida.
Hire the top mold services company in South Florida today!
Serving Miami Dade County (305): Kendall, Opa Locka, Coral Gables, Pinecrest, Homestead, Coconut Grove, Aventura, West Miami, Brickell, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, Doral, Hialeah, Perrine, North Miami Beach, Sweetwater, Bal Harbour, South Miami, North Bay Village, Miami Gardens, Tahiti Beach, Coco Plum, Miami Lakes
Serving Broward County Florida (954): Weston, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Hollywood, Tamarac, Miramar, Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale by the Sea, Cooper City, Davie, Hollywood Beach, Ft Lauderdale, Parkland, Pompano, Deerfield Beach, Margate, Plantation, Lighthouse Point, Wilton Manors
Services Provided by Mold Detection Services of South Florida: Certified Mold Testing, Mold Inspection, Mold Detection and Consulting Services in South Florida Indoor Air Quality Testing, Environmental Sampling, Bacteria Testing, Mold Air Tests, David Leshner, Mildew, Clearance Testing, Post Remediation Testing, Black Mold Testing, Toxic Mold Testing, Allergy Testing, I A Q, Hurricane Storm Damage Inspections, Certified Mold Experts in South Florida
Call: 305.571.2280 or 866.654.6653 Email us at: info@mdsdog.com
Mold Detection Services of South Florida [305.571.2280] found toxic mold growing in the closet of a Miami Dade County home this week during a pre-purchase inspection. Luckily this mold problem was found before the home was purchased. The Real Estate Agents did an amazing job in negotiating a few thousand dollars out of the contract for remediation and the closing will be going through as scheduled. The picture contains visible Stachybotrys (black mold), Penicillium and Cladosporium. The Air Quality Test results showed elevated levels of all three molds.
This is the perfect example of when qualified inspection firms and agents work together for the best interest of their clients.
Call the Top Rated Mold Services Company In South Florida(SunPost 2006 & 2007)
Mold Detection Services of South Florida- Mold behind the AC Handler. call: 305.571.2280
It is very important to inspect and test behind the AC Handlers during a mold inspection. Do not let an inspector just perform a visual inspection and say things are OK. Mold Detection Services of South Florida found a leak with their Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera from where the plenum meets the handler. This is the type of problems that can be found lurking if a proper inspection is performed.
There is nothing cool about mold. Ugly and smelly, it can ruin a perfectly good loaf of bread in a matter of days. But bread is easily replaceable. The mold spores that can grow in the structure of your home can cause damage well beyond the cost of a loaf of bread. Mold Detection Services, Inc. of South Florida will inspect and test for mold in homes, apartments, workplaces, schools, commercial properties, boats and anywhere else mold grows. MDS uses technology and electronic monitoring services like infrared camera and laser particle counters to thoroughly inspect and test areas for mold. MDS even uses mold-sniffing dogs to non-invasively check for the invader. Talk about leaving the dirty work to the dogs!
MOLD DETECTION'S BLACK TOXIC MOLD (STACHYBOTRYS) PICTURES OF THE WEEK: 305.571.2280
From: Miami Beach Condo Wall
From: Miami Beach Condo Wall
The pictures above were taken from a Miami Beach Condo that suffered from heavy water intrusion. The dry wall has turned into a toxic breeding ground for the Stachybotrys Black Toxic Mold. A certified mold sniffing beagle was used to uncover this hidden mold on the inspection. After the dog alerted to the wall area, a certified indoor environmentalist from mold Detection Services took a wall cavity check lab air sample which revealed that not only did the MoldDog find hidden mold, but also Toxic Mold. This was going to be the babies room in this condominium, so needless to say the owners were very pleased the beagle found this problem. During the rainy season, Infrared Thermal Imaging Cameras are used to find water leaks that will lead to mold related issues.
As you can see above, the walls were affected on both sides of the framing. Don't be fooled into thinking that the mold only stays on one side fo the wall. With extensive water damage and leaks, both sides of the wall may be covered in mold. Opening up comprimised and moldy dry wall should be done under contained conditions.
MOLD Inflammation Associated with VOC's (volatile organic compounds)305.571.2280
Toxin-induced inflammation is caused by repeated or high levels of exposure to airborne Mycotoxins. These Mycotoxins irritate the mucous membranes associated with the eyes, nose, and throat. If spores are inhaled and reach the lung alveoli, they may induce inflammatory reactions and cause toxic pneumonitis. The musty odor associated with airborne molds may cause headaches, dizziness, dermatitis, diarrhea, and impaired immune functions.
Stachybotrys atra
Stachybotrys atra
Stachybotrys atra
Stachybotrys atra is a greenish-black mold. It can grow on material with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content, such as fiberboard, gypsum board, paper, dust, and lint.
Insurance Claims Help and Information- Storm Ready
When filing your claim, complete a precisely detailed estimate of what is required to repair or rebuild your property. Assist in the preparation of inventories on your damaged personal property, contents, and related items. With your help in providing correct documentation, and determining ages, descriptions and determine the approximate current values. Have your losses or additional living expenses ready to submit in your claim. Establish a professional line of communications with the insurance adjuster and present estimates, inventories, and other valuations to the insurance adjuster. A Public Adjuster can meet with your insurance company to adjust your claim fairly and equitably, thus resulting in an acceptable settlement to you.
Florida insurance rates for property already are the highest in the country, due to hurricanes and other natural disasters. Major Florida Insurance Providers are seeing increases in claims for mold more than in recent years. The insurance industry faces huge losses for mold if storms were to pass through the state like they did in 2004.
Hurricane Insurance Checkups are Critical, especially with storm season already upon us!
Good insurance companies and agents regularly contact insurance clients and business owners to ensure that their insurance coverage is adequate, especially hurricanes. It is still your responsibility to make sure all your documents and insurance coverage is up to date.
It is important to make a folder that can easily be taken with you if needed for evacuation that contains your poilcy, contact information for carriers and photos of how things looked before the storm. Make sure all valuables are listed and receipts are kept.
INFRARED THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA - Leak from floor-to-ceiling window frames into ceiling area.
What is a post hurricane inspection:
Our Certified Mold Inspectors use laser pointed hygrometers (detects humidity levels and accurate temperature readings), boroscopes (fiber optics), protimiters (moisture meter), and laser particle counters (instant airborne particle count). Infrared Thermal Imaging Cameras are the latest specialized equipment used by our inspectors. These all help detect hidden mold behind the walls, ceilings and floors to determine the areas of potential mold growth and continuing moisture penetration.
The ARTI Laser Particle CounterTM is used to assess indoor air quality and cleanliness of rooms. The handheld device monitors environments to test for airborne particles. This device will help track down particle source problems. Its intelligent design and overall utility is invaluable in mold detection and making workplace environments safer and healthier.
Why should you choose Mold Detection Services, Inc.
MDS, Inc. was founded on the premise that we would provide the best tools, technology, and service for detecting and identifying mold in any environment.
MDS, Inc. has recruited man's best friend to assist us in detecting mold. Our only focus is to detect and identify mold, we DO NOT provide remediation services, since it would be a conflict of interest.
Our equipment is routinely calibrated to provide you with the most accurate inspection possible.
Clearance Testing
Please feel free to call us once your remediation is complete so we can determine whether or not toxic black mold still exists. Learn more about Clearance Testing Services.
Lab Testing Information
Mold Detection Services, Inc. works only with nationally recognized labs, which specialize in testing for mold and toxins. Our Certified Indoor Environmentalist will perform mold testing services to suit your needs.
We offer Bulk, Bio Tape, Swab, Petri Cultures, Indoor Air Quality Testing Services and Bacteria Samples. Our results are generated with-in 24 to 48 hours standard time, but same day results are available for an extra charge. We only use custom made Buck Pumps and Bio-Samplers. All equipment is calibrated with Buck digital calibration machine. This guarantees our clients recieve accurate test results.
Mold Detection Services, uses an accredited lab with a goal to provide accurate, timely, and detailed analysis of our samples while maintaining the highest level of customer service and technical support in the industry. To achieve this goal, PRO-LAB has developed a Quality Assurance Program to govern all aspects of its laboratory and consulting services. The Quality Assurance Program includes guidelines and requirements for procurement, handling of samples, personnel management, data validation and the systematic approach to laboratory and consulting operations.
Mold Detection Services is Certified and Fully Insured. Call the South Florida Mold Comapny You Can TRUST! 305.571.2280
Certifications and Professional Associations
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) AIHA promotes, protects, and enhances industrial hygienists and other occupational health, safety and environmental professionals in their efforts to improve the health and well being of workers, the community, and the environment.
Florida Canine Academy, Inc. As Florida Canine Academy certified inspectors, we have successfully completed over 1000 hours of canine and handler training in mold detection. Learn more about our Certified MoldDogsTM.
Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) The Indoor Air Quality Association is a nonprofit, multi-disciplined organization, dedicated to promoting the exchange of indoor environmental information, through education and research, for the safety and well being of the general public. Certified Indoor Environmental Consultants and Certified Mold Inspectors.
Indoor Environmental Standards Organization (IESO) As the indoor air quality (IAQ) industry continues to evolve, businesses that are responsible for managing IAQ issues are adapting to meet the demands of the industry. The Indoor Environmental Standards Organization (IESO) was established in 2002 to assist these businesses.
National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP) As NAMP certified inspectors, we adhere to the highest standards for conduct and ethics in dealing with you, the client. These standards are our guideline for conducting a mold inspection and outline the various components and procedures of a professional mold inspection. These standards address the purpose, scope and limitations of the inspection process.
Professional Laboratories, Inc. (PRO-LABTM) Staffed with over 70 professionals, including Certified Indoor Air Quality Professionals, Ph.D. Mycologists, Board Certified Physicians, Registered Clinical Laboratory Technicians, PRO-LAB has the necessary experience to assist in any environmental investigation.
CALL: 305.571.2280 or 866.654.6653 for more information on services
Mold Information Links, Mold Detection & Testing Links
Toll Free: 866.654.MOLD(6653) Direct Line: 305.571.2280
Miami Dade, Homestead, Florida Keys, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Palmetto Bay, Kendall, Miami Springs, Hialeah, Opa-Locka, Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, North Miami, Brickell, Key Biscayne, Key West, Aventura, Weston, Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Broward County, Dade County, West Palm Beach County, Dania Beach, Hallandale Beach, Palm Beach County, Boca Raton, Coral Springs, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Lake Worth, Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton Florida
Mold Testing, Inspection, Consulting, Detection and Prevention Services in South Florida by Mold Detection Services, Inc. 866.654.6653 or 305.571.2280
Mold Detection Services - Consulting and Testing Company. Certified Mold Testing, Inspection and Consulting Services in South Florida. Indoor Air Quality and Environmental Experts, Miami Mold Testing, Boca Raton, Ft Lauderdale
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
From: Miami Beach Condo Wall
From: Miami Beach Condo Wall
The ARTI Laser Particle CounterTM is used to assess indoor air quality and cleanliness of rooms. The handheld device monitors environments to test for airborne particles. This device will help track down particle source problems. Its intelligent design and overall utility is invaluable in mold detection and making workplace environments safer and healthier. 
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