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Smart Mold Remediation: What Pros Do (and What They Avoid)

By
Home Inspector with All American Inspections & Testing LHI#10501

Not all mold remediation is done right—and without independent verification, there’s often no way to tell.

At All American Inspections and Testing (AAIT), we provide independent mold inspections and environmental testing before and after remediation. We don’t perform mold cleanup ourselves, which means we have no conflict of interest. Our role is to assess the problem, confirm whether conditions are safe, and document the results clearly and professionally.


What Proper Mold Remediation Should Look Like

We often get called in after remediation has already been completed—sometimes for clearance testing, sometimes because the client suspects something was missed. Here’s how mold remediation is supposed to be done, according to industry standards:

1. Identify and Fix the Source of Moisture

The EPA makes it clear: “Mold will not grow if moisture is not present.” Without fixing the water source—leaks, humidity, drainage, etc.—the problem will return (EPA Mold Guide).

2. Containment and Negative Air Pressure

Remediators should isolate the work area and use negative pressure to prevent spores from spreading. This is standard practice outlined in the IICRC S520 and AIHA guidelines for mold remediation.

3. Physical Removal of Mold Contamination

Dead mold can still cause allergic reactions and respiratory issues. According to the CDC, killing mold with chemicals isn’t enough—it must be physically removed from porous surfaces.

4. Air Filtration During and After Work

HEPA-filtered air scrubbers should run continuously to remove airborne spores during the remediation process. The ANSI/IICRC S520 standard provides recommended air change rates and dwell times based on the size of the space.

5. Post-Remediation Verification (PRV)

This final step is where we come in. Post-remediation testing should be conducted by an independent third party—not the same contractor who performed the cleanup. Our job is to ensure air and surfaces meet acceptable fungal ecology levels and that the source of moisture has truly been resolved.


What We Commonly See When Testing After Remediation

Unfortunately, many remediation jobs fall short. In recent years, we’ve found:

  • Airborne spore levels still elevated after “clearance”

  • Growth behind trim or in wall cavities left untreated

  • Moisture readings still above safe thresholds

  • No documentation of containment or negative air

  • Clients told it was “done,” with no lab results to prove it


Our Services at AAIT

  • Initial Mold Inspections – to establish cause, spread, and severity

  • Air and Surface Testing – analyzed by accredited labs

  • Thermal Imaging & Moisture Mapping – to find hidden leaks and vapor drive

  • Post-Remediation Verification (PRV) – to ensure the job was done correctly

  • Clear, Professional Reporting – suitable for real estate, insurance, and legal documentation


Why It Matters for Real Estate Professionals and Property Owners

Mold that’s cleaned improperly—or not verified independently—can return, cause health issues, delay closings, or trigger tenant complaints. Our testing brings transparency to the process. We protect buyers, sellers, managers, and occupants with facts, not assumptions.


Serving Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and surrounding parishes.
Licensed. Unbiased. Focused on protecting your health and investment.

Contact All American Inspections and Testing today to schedule an inspection or request a quote.

Comments(6)

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Laura Cerrano
Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island - Locust Valley, NY
Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher

Has troubles number is all that might be I think it’s good that these things get talked about so everybody knows what to do out there..

Apr 08, 2025 11:18 PM
George Souto
George Souto NMLS #65149 - Middletown, CT
Your Connecticut Mortgage Expert

Dan Paradela mold is a problem in many homes, especially here in the Northeast where most homes have basements.

Apr 09, 2025 04:04 AM
Sham Reddy CRS
Howard Hanna RE Services, Dayton, OH - Dayton, OH
CRS

Great advice Dan!!! Thanks for sharing great info about mold remediation!!!

Post-remediation testing should be conducted by an independent third party—not the same contractor who performed the cleanup. Our job is to ensure air and surfaces meet acceptable fungal ecology levels and that the source of moisture has truly been resolved.

Apr 09, 2025 04:25 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Dan. In today's litigation prone world, remediation verification is the best alternative and necessary. Enjoy your day.

Apr 09, 2025 04:56 AM
Joe Mojica
Laer Realty Partners Bowen - Port St Lucie, FL
Your Home Adds Value to You

Dan- I have seen my share of properties with mold issues in Florida.  In 2010-2013, we also experience the Chinese Wall problem. Thanks for your value information on mold.

Apr 09, 2025 05:39 AM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Thank you very much, Dan, for sharing your experience and advice.

I will share your blog post on X.

Apr 09, 2025 08:44 AM