This is a question I ask myself at least once a year while looking into training and equipment for mold testing. Is testing for mold a good service to offer? So far the answer I've come up with each time is "probably not" but I always, at least partially, contribute my answer to lack of education on the subject so I read more. Each time I find myself searching for some information that will convince me otherwise but so far I've come to the same conclusion. This blog only covers a small area and I will not attempt to go over all testing types, mold types or health/property risks.
A couple weeks ago I completed two basic courses on air quality testing/mold inspections as well as researched equipment needed to perform this service. After completing the courses I contacted a local laboratory that offers face to face training over over the course of several days and decided if I were to pursue testing I would take that training. But shortly after gathering all the information I thought I needed to move forward I found myself questioning the value of mold testing and once again I am unconvinced. I know I could add this service and do it, I'm asked about it all the time, but I can't justify performing a service that I don't really believe in just because I can make money off of it. My stand on mold has always been to eliminate the source, water intrusion, and clean/remove materials to prevent possible damage to the structure. The issue of health related mold problems is there I know but I am not convinced that these are as common as some are lead to believe. I do believe the general public has a fear of mold because they are taught to fear it. On the other hand I've read articles discussing serious illnesses cause by exposure.
Some say technically you should not say the substance is mold without having it tested first but really if you can see/smell it why not just correct the conditions, what's the point of testing it? On the other hand air samples can tell you if the indoor air quality is consistent with the exterior air quality. If the indoor sample shows higher levels of mold you would technically have a mold problem in need of correction. One of the problems I have with that method is the fact that most people do not want to pay for the number of air samples that would, in my opinion, provide a good answer. Contractors will often take one to two outdoor samples and perhaps only one indoor sample. The cost of a "proper" mold test, as far as I can tell, would be extensively more than most buyer's are willing to spend.
As I said before I am no expert but I am looking for opinions on mold testing. I've spoken to several inspectors about this and of course I get two responses. Those who test for it of course stand behind it and those who don't take a similar approach to mine. What is your opinion?
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