For some it is hard to know if they need to have a mold inspector come out, or not.
It's difficult for many to understand when it is more advantageous to call in a professional to perform the inspection and testing but it really doesn't have to be.
You want to know why mold testing is appropriate, and the problem is, many people will spend money on mold testing when it is not needed- and that causes a conflict for some.
However, the thing is, when you spend money on mold tests which can be unreliable, you may not be able to conclude if you've got a mold problem or not.
So, what do you do? You may be able to clearly see fungus or mold growing along a wall or on some trim, it may be very obvious that you have mold growing, so you may say to yourself- "Why would I need someone to come out and confirm what I already know?" But the truth is, lurking beneath that mold may be extensive damage you can't see.
Trained professional mold inspectors are educated in not only mold detection, but what sorts of mold may be causing what problems and how those problems began.
That is why hiring a mold inspector is a good idea in any case.
Many times what requires professional inspection is how deep of a clean up will be needed, and also where the hidden mold may still be once the visible mold is taken care of.
More than just guesswork is needed.
For instance you may take one look at a moldy spot and assume there is more behind it, however, building investigations for mold will usually reveal not only that mold but other allergens, gases, and air quality issues that usually require a much broader approach and examination.
You have to be able to tell where the sources of moisture, toxic or allergenic mold and other allergens really are.
There has to be a certain level of confidence in understanding the building being inspected, how the mold itself works, where the problem areas are, as well as examining the entire structure with a trained eye- inside and out, knowing the mechanical systems and making sure they, too are well examined.
Only partial inspections will not do- this is like only doing away with part of the problem and you risk having to repeat the whole thing all over again.
Though you may not be able to see much of the mold, the presence of fungus and other molds growing beneath the trim will usually reveal an area has been steeped in moisture for a while and this is a big problem.
You would need professional inspection to let you know exactly where the problem has begun and how deep the damage really goes.
Hiring a mold inspection professional is an important investment into your home, one that you cannot afford to be without.
Make sure you know you're getting a good inspection.