Visual Inspection
A mold inspection checks for 2 things: visible mold growth and water/moisture. Mold does not grow without a water source nearby. We inspect the following areas of the home:
Crawlspace
Basement
Attic
Plumbing including running water at fixtures
HVAC
Exterior for signs of water intrusion
Roof for signs of water intrusion
Thermal Camara Inspection
Every inspection includes a thermal scan of all walls/ceilings. Thermal camaras identify temperature differences at surfaces. With proper training and the right conditions at the time of inspection, a thermal camara can often identify hidden water leaks.
In the following pictures, the white spots in the center of the photo are leaks from plumbing/roof. They appear as “cold” on the thermal camara because they are colder than the surrounding wood. Even in a dark attic they light up like a Christmas tree! Some had visible water but some did not and had to be confirmed by a moisture meter and touching.
Crawlspace Mold
The most common area to find mold in is the crawlspace. The crawlspace is a small space below the floors that can only be accessed by crawling or kneeling. Not all homes have a crawlspace but many do.
Crawlspaces are complicated and warrant their own page. But in short, water intrusion, condensation, and humidity are all common causes of mold.