Why inspection comes before testing
Many people call asking for a mold test when what they need first is an inspection. A test tells you something about spores in the air or on a surface at one moment. An inspection tells you where moisture is, what materials are affected and how far a problem extends. Without the inspection, test results are hard to interpret and rarely point to a solution.
Our inspections in California Polytechnic State University, CA start with a conversation about what you have noticed: smells, stains, recent leaks, health concerns or a home purchase. We then walk the property, paying attention to bathrooms, kitchens, basements, attics, crawlspaces, HVAC equipment and any area with a history of water.
Tools we use
Moisture meters let us check drywall, wood and flooring for elevated moisture without opening walls. Thermal imaging cameras show temperature differences that often reveal wet areas, missing insulation or active leaks behind finished surfaces. Hygrometers measure humidity, which helps explain condensation and mildew problems.
When sampling is appropriate, we may collect air samples from affected and unaffected areas, along with an outdoor sample for comparison, or surface samples from suspected growth. Samples are analyzed by an independent laboratory. We explain the results alongside our inspection findings, because a lab report on its own can be confusing.
What you receive
After the inspection, you get a clear summary of what we found: areas with elevated moisture, visible or suspected growth, likely sources and a recommended course of action. If no significant problem exists, we tell you that plainly. If remediation is needed, we outline its scope so you understand what would be involved.
Buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants use our inspections to make informed decisions. Homeowners use them for peace of mind after a leak or when a musty smell will not go away. Either way, the aim is information you can rely on, not a sales pitch.
How our mold testing & inspection process works
- DiscussReview your concerns, history of leaks and areas of interest.
- InspectWalk the property with moisture meters and thermal imaging.
- SampleCollect air or surface samples when they will add useful information.
- ReportExplain findings, lab results and recommended next steps.
What a California Polytechnic State University, CA customer said
We smelled something in the lower level of a house we wanted to buy. Their inspection found moisture behind a finished wall near the sump. The seller agreed to repairs before closing.Kevin A.Pre-purchase inspection, California Polytechnic State University, CA
Mold Testing & Inspection questions
No. If mold is visible, the priority is usually finding the moisture source and removing the growth. Testing is most useful when a problem is suspected but not visible, or for verification.
Most laboratories return results within a few business days. Expedited analysis is often available.
Yes. A mold and moisture inspection can be scheduled alongside or after your general home inspection.