Easy Ways to Protect the Environment

If you're like most homeowners, one of the last things you want to contend with is household mold infestations. Mold inspections are an important part of home maintenance, especially if you notice potential indications of mold such as musty odors, or live in an area with high atmospheric humidity. By preparing properly, you can make the process smoother and more efficient, ensuring accurate results. Here's how you can prepare for a mold inspection:

Clear Access Areas  

Mold inspectors will need to access various areas of your home, so it's important to clear these areas beforehand. Move furniture, appliances, or other items that may block access to walls, vents, and windows. It's also advisable to clear a path to crawl spaces, basements, and attics where mold often thrives.

Contain Pets

If you have pets, make arrangements to keep them contained during the inspection. Pets can be a distraction and may interfere with the inspection process. Consider confining them to a specific area or arranging for them to stay elsewhere for the duration of the inspection.

Disclose Past Mold Issues

If your home has a history of mold problems, share this information with the inspector. Knowing where previous mold growth occurred can help them focus their investigation and find potential problem areas more quickly.

Be Ready to Discuss Concerns

Before the inspection, think about any concerns you want to discuss with the inspector. Maybe you've noticed a musty odor in certain parts of the house, or you've experienced unexplained health symptoms like allergies or respiratory problems. These could be signs of mold, and discussing them with the inspector can help direct their attention to specific areas.

Leave Mold Areas Untouched 

If you've found an area where you believe mold is growing, leave it untouched. Disturbing the area could cause mold spores to spread, potentially leading to further contamination. Point the suspected areas out to the inspector and let them take the appropriate steps.

Make Documents Available

If you have any documentation related to water damage, mold remediation, or previous inspections, have these ready to show the inspector. Such documents can provide valuable insights into your home's mold history.

Cooperate With the Inspector

A mold inspection can be a somewhat invasive process as it involves investigating various parts of your home. Remember, the inspector is there to help identify potential health risks and protect your home. Cooperate fully with them and be open to their recommendations.