Mold remediation is a relatively new field of restoration construction. Twenty years ago, most people didn't understand the hazards of mold contamination. Most contractors treated mold on drywall and other building materials using no special care or techniques. We found it and cleaned or removed it without special equipment or procedures. Today, mold is a major concern. Many people think the whole "mold thing" is blown way out of proportion. Agree, or disagree, the rationale for this discussion is the reality of today's mold remediation industry.
Typically, mold remediators are called to prepare an estimate for the treatment, cleaning, removal, and remediation of mold in homes or commercial spaces. Most professional mold remediators are comprehensive in their examination and analysis of mold, preparing a reliable estimate for what they believe needs to be done. If the problem is mostly localized or very wide-spread, that estimate is relatively easy to prepare.
Questions arise when the remediator cannot see the amount of cross contamination. Did the mold spores get into the airstream and move to another room? Did mold spores deposit on furniture, carpets, clothing, or linens? How many rooms were affected? Was the air-conditioning/heating system a means of cross contamination or even become a means of proliferation for mold? Professional mold assessors are able to answer these questions. Knowing these answers makes the remediation more effective AND less expensive.
Mold assessors are able to support a residential or commercial remediation with the experience of a mold remediator, the practical know-how of a building contractor, and the understanding of a microbiologist. Determining the category of mold growth, (normal fungal ecology, settled spores, or active growth), can be the mold assessor's most important contribution to your mold remediation project. Knowing the source of the mold can determine the extent of spores that could be emanating from that point. Air samples can be critical in determining how far the mold has permeated. Direct samples may help determine if furniture or textiles have been contaminated with mold.
Mold assessors also perform PRV's (Post -Remediation Verification), more commonly known as Clearance tests. Plainly stated, no substantial mold remediation should be considered complete until a mold assessor (third party) has verified that the remediation is successful. Often, mold remediators will attempt to keep the price low by not recommending a PRV. Not having a PRV at the end of remediation is like your mechanic repairing the brakes on your car and not test-driving it before you leave for a long trip. Ethically, the clearance should be performed by a third party, not the remediator. 
Florida state statutes require that the mold remediator may NOT perform an assessment at the same property within 12 months of a remediation. Florida also requires licensing for both trades listed above. Check to see if your state requires licensing for mold related services.
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