Why should mold inspection and testing be part of the real estate transaction?

Mold is a part of nature and exists inside all our homes. The concern is when the mold inside our homes is out of the “normal” range. What is a normal range or environment for mold inside our homes? Rule of thumb: The mold spores in the air should be less than or equal to what is outside on any given day and there should not be any highly toxic unusual species that you do not normally find outside. Also there should be no mold growth on any of the structure regardless if it is impacting the air quality.

Potential buyers are usually alerted by their home inspector during the inspection process that there is a “substance resembling mold” and they should consult with a mold professional for further evaluation. The realtor can refer their client to a professional mold consultant to evaluate the property and provide a mold inspection and sampling analysis report to determine the severity of the potential mold problem.

The typical home buyer has never had an experience with the process of mold assessment and remediation (removal and cleaning procedures for mold); therefore, I try to educate people on the proper evaluation and testing methods and sampling strategies and subsequent remediation action necessary in order to bring the property back to a “normal fungal ecology”. There are two basic types of sampling techniques: air sampling and surface sampling. Air sampling is going to determine how many spores and what types are found airborne in the particular area or room that is being sampled. The surface sample or tape lift sample is going to determine if the substance is positive for mold growth and what type of mold. Both sample types are necessary to determine the extent of the problem in order to develop an accurate assessment and corresponding remediation plan.

Once the mold inspection and sampling analysis report with a detailed remediation plan specific to the property being evaluated is generated, all parties involved in the real estate transaction will have enough information to negotiate the details of the contract.

Just because there are no obvious visible signs of mold, don’t assume there is not a problem. It is what you cannot see in the air that can cause potential health issues. The most challenging part of mold exposure is that every single human being is different in how they respond to all the different species of molds outside and inside. Mold spores are divided into 3 basic groups based on health effects: Allergenic, Pathogenic and Toxic. Allergenic mold spores can cause allergic symptoms such as upper respiratory irritations, runny nose, itchy eyes, etc... Pathogenic molds can cause serious health effects in a person who already has a suppressed immune system. Toxic molds can cause serious health effects in almost everyone.

Enlisting the services of a certified mold professional is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the home you are buying is a healthy environment for you and your family.