Mold Testing in Virginia

Why do I need a mold test in Virginia?

Mold is a naturally occurring organism and often poses no health concern in nature. There are three broad types of mold – hypoallergenic mold, allergenic mold, and toxigenic mold. A Virginia mold test will reveal which types of mold are present. When mold grows in an area with limited air exchange, the concentration of mold spores can cause serious health issues. Only a Virginia mold test performed by a qualified Virginia mold inspector can detect the issues associated with elevated mold concentrations.

Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems because molds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, toxins. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include flu like symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. A Virginia mold inspector is able to determine the types and concentration of mold in a home.

Who will conduct my mold test in Virginia?

When you schedule a mold test with Home Inspections of Northern Virginia, it will be completed by a Ph.D. in Chemistry and Geology in order to offer you the expertise necessary to answer all of your questions relating to your test.

How does a mold test in Virginia work?

A mold test consists of air sampling taken with a special testing apparatus. After the mold test sampling is completed, the samples are sent to a lab for analysis. The results are typically available within five days and will indicate the type and concentration of any mold present.

Why is a mold test in Virginia important?

A mold test is important for several reasons. Because mold can never be fully mitigated, if the test reveals elevated levels of mold and airborne spores, clients should move forward with the understanding that mold may be a recurring concern. If the test indicates elevated mold concentrations, the home should have another test completed after the mitigation process is completed to ensure that the mold levels have been reduced. Mold inspections in Virginia should be completed at regular intervals in the future to determine if the mold needs to be mitigated again.

What if the mold test indicates that mold is present in the home?

If the Virginia mold inspector indicates that a harmful type and/or quantity of mold is present in a home, the potential buyer should proceed cautiously. Mold mitigation can be expensive and is not guaranteed to be effective. After the mold has been removed, another test should be completed to ensure that the mitigation was effective.

Is a negative result on a mold test permanent?

A mold test in Virginia that indicates that mold is not present in elevated levels does not guarantee that mold will never be present in the future. Mold spores are present in nature. As a homeowner, one should take caution to prevent moisture from accumulating inside the home. Mold testing occasionally can bring you peace of mind and comfort knowing that you are not exposed to harmful molds.

Do foreclosures and short sales need mold tests in Virginia?

Foreclosures and short sales in Virginia are especially susceptible to mold and should have mold tests completed prior to moving in to the home. These homes are often vacant for extended periods of time. Often, the HVAC equipment is not active during that time. The stagnant humid air that results presents perfect conditions for mold. In addition, these homes have often been subject to vandalism and neglect. The homes that were not properly winterized have suffered broken pipes and water damage as a result. What remains is moisture behind the walls and in the carpet and is very conducive for mold growth. A Virginia mold test will reveal the level of damage and any health concerns.