Resources for mold testing & remediation
In this post, I will share with you where to find mold sampling professionals, the standards they should be using, and the right questions to ask.
7 places to find mold sampling professionals
Local Engineer or Architect Referrals – Licensed professionals are have lots of education & liability
Universities with environmental science/engineering programs
Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA)
Environmental Consulting firm (Mold sampling & indoor air quality)
Professional Industrial Hygienist
Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification
American Council of Accredited Certification
NOTE: Only a few states regulate mold remediators – TX, NY are among them
The standards mold professionals SHOULD be using
ANSI/IICRC S500
Water Damage Restoration
ANSI/IICRC S520
Mold Remediation
Summary:
- Must DISCLOSE if deviate from the standard in any way
- Testing always BEFORE any coatings
- Source removal NOT fogging
- AVOID conflict of interest – Separate testing from remediation
Questions to ask any mold professional
- Experience / Time testing?
- Training, credentials & background
- Type of samples taken?
- Results reports – Copies of sample analyses, explanations?
- Liability insurance?
- Safety precautions?
If you have found quality professionals through other sources, please let me know what they are! I’m always looking to update my information to best help the people who need help.
Get your questions answered!
Cheryl Ciecko, AIA, ALA, LEED AP, is a licensed architect who helps homeowners and building professionals create safe homes through online education to prevent mold, water damage, and poor indoor air quality. You can find her video masterclasses, online programs, and education subscription options at https://avoidingmold.com/education .
For detailed answers on your specific situation or building project, schedule your appointment for an individual consultation.
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REQUIRED DISCLAIMER
The information contained in this presentation is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, treat, or cure any disease, ailment or injury to the body. It is not medical advice. FDA regulations prohibit the use of medical claims in conjunction with the sale of any product not approved by the FDA. Statements made herein have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Any products, techniques, and/or personal usage tips referred to are not suggested as a replacement for proper treatment from a licensed health care professional. I am not a licensed health care professional and the decision to use or not to use any of this information is the sole responsibility of the listener and/or reader. Everyone is an individual with different body types, different blood types, different body chemistries, and it is important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another person.