Why Mold Inspections & Testing Are Important
At e.h.c., we understand that there are many factors which can lead to the growth of mold, including humidity levels in your home’s environment, water leaks, flooding, or plumbing issues. We offer affordable mold inspections/assessments to help customers identify the source of their mold problems. On a case-by-case basis we will recommend air sample collection to sample. After our mold testing, we create plans for mold remediation while also helping identify any sources causing elevated spore counts. Our mold inspection services include 4 levels:
Level 1 Inspection:
Includes:
- Spore Trap Air Samples
- Visual Inspection of Living Space, Attics, Crawl Spaces and all other Accessible Spaces
- Moisture Meter
- RH Reading
Base price includes:
- (3) spore traps
- Please note- only accessible areas can be inspected
Level 2 Inspection:
Includes:
- Spore Trap Air Samples
- Visual Inspection of Living Space Only (No Attics or Crawl Spaces)
- Moisture Meter
- RH Readings
Base price includes:
- (3) spore traps
- Visual inspection includes visual assessment of accessible areas in home
Level 3 Inspection:
Includes:
- Spore Trap Air Sampling Only- No visual inspection will be performed
Base price includes:
Level 4 Inspection:
Includes:
- Visual Inspection of Living Space, Attics, Crawlspaces, and Accessible Spaces – No air sampling
Steps To Take In The Mold Removal Process
It is important to us that our clients understand the steps involved in the mold removal procedure. We spend time educating our clients about the process and welcome any questions. We want the owner to understand why our employees are suited up in Tyvek suits, wearing respirators, carrying large machines into their buildings, and building containment walls in areas that the owners will not be able to access for the duration of the mold remediation project.
Our company will inform our clients of the possible factors that caused the mold to develop, how it reproduces and how it travels within a building. It is our desire that the owner knows the facts. It is documented that certain molds cause serious health problems and for that reason a protocol for removal has been deemed essential. After we identify a problem in your home or building during the initial inspection, a proposal is prepared for our clients which will include the following:
- Meeting with the client;
- Collection of background air samples if they were not collected during the initial consultation;
- Placing a poly barrier in areas requiring access by e.h.c. employees to prevent dirt and debris from entering Client’s home or facility;
- E.h.c. Inspector and Client will perform a walk-through of the area to ensure the Client understands the scope of work;
- Inspect the work area and mitigate safety concerns or hazards prior to the start of work;
- Install air filtration machines which are exhausted outside in order to create negative pressure in work area;
- Pre-clean areas which require critical barriers using an anti-microbial solution and HEPA vacuums;
- Install critical barriers over doors, HVAC systems, etc.;
- Construct containment area around project site using 6-mil polyethylene sheeting;
- Set-up a decontamination chamber for use by the crew at entrance to work area;
- Smoke test decontamination unit to ensure there is adequate negative pressure;
- Remove street clothing and suit up into disposable Tyvek suit, gloves, boots, and respirator;
- Perform gross demolition of affected materials, i.e. drywall, carpet, ceiling tiles, etc.;
- Double bag all materials prior to removing from home or out of the work area;
- Soda blast or sand blast all structural wood, i.e. studs, ceiling joists, etc.;
- Apply anti-microbial multiple times using atomizing airless sprayers;
- HEPA vacuum all surfaces in work area and then wipe all surfaces with towels;
- Apply clear anti-microbial paint to wood structural surfaces as necessary;
- Allow 24 hours to pass;
- Perform clearance testing using spore traps air samples;
- Tear down work area after samples indicate passing results.
Please contact us to investigate your home, school, or facility if you suspect a mold problem, which may include visible growth, unexplained odors, or complaints of respiratory symptoms. We will investigate promptly. Our experience includes investigations and remediation in schools, libraries, multi-family apartments, factories, commercial kitchens, residences, and other facilities.
