Living or working in a moldy environment can have serious health consequences, including asthma, allergies, respiratory tract infections, fungal infections, and skin problems. If any of these conditions are continuously present, this may indicate a problem in the structure and will require an inspection of the mold by a trained specialist. Before covering what is involved in this process, it is necessary to identify a general definition of mold.
Mold is a group of microscopic fungi, called spores, that live on animal or plant matter. It is introduced into a house or building either through the air or on people, animals or objects. It requires nutrients to grow and spread uncontrollably. These nutrients are found in dead organic matter such as wood, paper, or fabrics. It requires moisture to spread, and that can be obtained through the air in low humidity conditions. It is more prevalent in cooler climates as it is killed by extreme heat over 100 degrees.
Some common sources of moisture where this can become a problem are foundations, clothes dryer vents, crawl spaces, homes with degraded lots, high indoor humidity, humidifiers and vaporizers, and inadequate ventilation. Commercial buildings can develop what is known as Sick Building Syndrome, which is a term used when there are complaints about indoor air quality and respiratory symptoms from people who use the building regularly. The main cause of SBS is inadequate ventilation, which can be contributed to by chemical contaminants from indoor sources such as upholstery and cleaning agents. Poor construction is another factor. Up to 30 percent of commercial buildings are thought to have problems with SBS.
When a home or business owner decides to get an inspection, it’s important to contact a professional. They will have training on how to detect and remove mold and must have a job title such as Certified Mold Inspector, Certified Mold Remediator, or Certified Environmental Hygienist.
Testing includes looking for any type of toxic, household, or bacterial mold infestation; common allergens, including animal dander, dust mites, cockroaches or radon gas, and control of drinking water and all painted surfaces. A black mold called Stachybotrys is the most dangerous type and should be removed immediately.
After the inspection, the next step the professional would take would be the removal of any infected areas, such as wallpaper, plaster, carpet, or tile. Of course, contamination can occur in any area of the structure and must be detected by testing.
To prevent future problems, the technician should blot out damp areas to prevent recurring moisture buildup. He or she should also educate the home or building owner on indoor air circulation and how to prevent additional mold problems from developing.
In exchange for the fee paid to the mold inspector, the home or business owner should expect the services to contain the spread in uncontaminated areas, remove existing mold, remove dead spores, and protect the clean area from future infestations.