Mold Testing in Orlando and Winter Park

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Even if mold is visible, it is important to conduct an air quality test to determine how far it may have spread.

If you suspect you may have mold in your home or you are certain that you have mold in an area that is larger than ten square feet, you should absolutely be seeking a professional hygienist to perform mold testing. Many of our initial conversations with clients consist of explaining the mold remediation process and guiding them towards taking the correct actions. In this article, we will explain what it means to have mold testing done in your home, why it is important, and what you can do to get the process going correctly.

Does SERVPRO Test for Mold?

Most of our callers assume that testing for mold and removing it are the same service. However, while SERVPRO of Winter Park is licensed to remediate and remove mold, we are not actually licensed to test for mold or determine whether you have a mold issue at all. Here’s why.

In the state of Florida, there are laws in place that protect businesses and homeowners by not allowing any particular business to simultaneously hold a remediator license and a testing license at any given time. The licenses are separated to ensure that you, as the homeowner, are safe from conducting business with any company that may wish to perform testing on your property, inflate estimates for remediation, and overcharge you for services performed.

If SERVPRO Can’t Test, Who Can?

The decision of who to call to schedule mold testing services is entirely up to you unless your insurance company specifies otherwise. There are many testing companies available in Central Florida but it is important to know what you should expect from your company of choice. Be wary of companies that offer to perform remediation as well or companies that do not provide full documentation after tests are completed. While SERVPRO of Winter Park does not provide this service, we understand how confusing the search for a trustworthy mold inspection company can be, which is why we provide our callers with recommendations for mold testers that have proven to be efficient and thorough.

What Should I Expect from The Mold Tester’s I Choose?

Multiple Tests

Solid mold testing companies in Orlando and the surrounding areas will actually perform more than one test in your home. Taking surface samples from your home can determine the type of mold you are dealing with, however, doing this type of testing alone is insufficient in determining the extent to which your home is affected or the actions that must be completed to successfully remediate and ensure the problem is gone.

Air quality samples should also be taken from multiple areas throughout your home. Mold is a living organism that releases spores that become airborne and can travel throughout hour home and ventilation, affecting other areas as well. Air quality tests will determine how much of your home is affected and to what extent.

Comprehensive Reports and Protocols

A professional mold assessor will provide you with the full details of your testing results and their findings. You should expect a report that contains a variety of information such as the type of mold species that was found, how many areas are affected, and which areas contain the highest concentration of spores.

Just as important, you should make sure to receive a written protocol from the mold testers that details what actions are needed in order to successfully remediate the mold so that the problem does not worsen and will not come back.

Will SERVPRO Remediate Without Testing?

SERVPRO of Winter Park will NOT perform services for any client that cannot provide a written protocol for proper remediation. As an IICRC licensed remediation company, we follow strict guidelines to ensure quality work and services are provided to our client’s.

The only exception to this rule is in the case of clients who have a mold problem that is only affecting an area that is less than ten square feet. While we still recommend proper testing is performed, areas smaller than ten square feet do not require testing and be removed of mold or mildew, treated, and sanitized.

How to Get Mold Testing Started

Once again, finding your own mold testing company is your choice. Be sure to do as much research into the company you choose as possible and remember the key points made in this article. If you need assistance, direction, or recommendations for trustworthy mold inspection companies, call our office at (407) 678-5391 and we will be more than happy to assist you!