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Your Inspector is ESA certified in Mold and Indoor Air Quality testing. When you give us a call, you will speak with a Mold Inspector who is not only professional but courteous and ready to answer your questions and concerns. Your appointment, if necessary, will be made at that time. You will be greeted at the scheduled inspection by the Inspector. The Inspector will address your concerns before the inspection and ask you to show him (if possible) the issues that may be of concern regarding microbial growth (mold, fungi). A mold contract will be initiated at this time. The Inspector will thoroughly inspect the property and look for any “Red Flags” pertaining to microbial growth. Note: A “Red Flag” is defined as any situation or condition that is favorable for mold growth, has visible mold, has a history of or is currently exhibiting signs of water intrusion, or where the Inspector senses “musty” odors, and/or an occupant states they have health related symptoms. During this inspection, the Inspector will also look for signs to the reason behind any “Red Flags." This could be but not limited to water intrusion, improper ventilation, and missing vapor barriers. You will be presented the preliminary findings of the inspection and the Inspector will ask if you wish to have samples taken. The mold contract will be finalized at this time. All findings will be documented and given to you regardless if samples are taken. If samples are desired, state-of-the-art equipment will be utilized with the samples sent to an accredited laboratory that day. The sample results and report are normally given to you within two business days of the inspection. The report is a very easy to read document and will consist of the findings, possible reasons behind the microbial growth, digital pictures, and a recommendation. The laboratory report will also be included. Finally, you will receive a phone call from the Inspector to discuss any questions or concerns that you may have.
Mold Sampling Decision Chart
Types of Sampling Swab Sampling Swab samples should be taken where an appearance of microbial growth is visible or moisture stains are present. Air Sampling Air samples should be taken if any “Red Flag” conditions are seen. When an indoor air sample is taken, an outdoor air sample must also be taken. This is necessary so the laboratory can compare the concentration levels of microbial growth. There should not be higher concentrations of mold inside than outside the dwelling. Carpet Sampling Carpet sampling should be accomplished when “Red Flags” are detected or not detected. A small portion of the carpet will be sampled that is not considered within the normal traffic area. Wall Sampling If microbial growth is seen on the wall, wall sampling should be accomplished. Outlet or switch cover plates will be removed to access the area behind the wall covering. Holes may need to be drilled to access behind the wall covering. If this is necessary, we will need permission from the owners.
For further information on Mold and other environmental concerns What is Radon? Radon is an odorless, tasteless, invisible, and toxic radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. The release of this gas enters the air you breathe and can be found just about anywhere entering any type of building such as homes, schools, and offices. Radon entering buildings can build up to high levels and according to the Surgeon General, it is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Are homes in North Carolina affected by Radon? According to the EPA, a large portion of central and eastern North Carolina has a potential of Radon. Radon levels can vary widely from one home to the next even on the same street. The only way to know if Radon may be an issue in a home is to have a test accomplished. Note: I’ve personally tested homes in areas where the EPA has predicted low levels of Radon. Some of those homes tested had high levels of Radon which posed a health risk according to the EPA. Again, the only way to know if Radon is not an issue in your home or the home you are purchasing is to have a test accomplished! Can high levels of Radon be remedied? Yes. The EPA recommends that levels of Radon that is 4 pCi/L (pico curries per liter of air) or higher be mitigated. Repairs can range from $1,000 to $2,500 when performed by a certified contractor and the repair does not require major changes to the home. Testing for Radon We use sophisticated electronic radon monitoring devices that require yearly laboratory calibration. The monitor is placed at the lowest level of the home for a minimum of 48 hours. The testing must be conducted with doors, windows, and ventilation systems being off or closed. Normal entry through doors are acceptable providing doors are closed immediately.
Electronic Monitoring versus Charcoal Canisters
For further information on Radon and other environmental |
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