Mold Inspection & Testing Services
Certified Mold Inspection & Testing Services in Portland, OR
Visible mold is often just the tip of the iceberg; the root problem is almost always hidden moisture, and airborne spores can contaminate the entire home without any visible growth. In Portland’s damp climate, distinguishing between harmless surface mildew and serious, health-threatening structural mold requires professional expertise. Guessing the source or extent of the contamination leads to incomplete remediation and recurrent mold growth, resulting in wasted time and money and potential health risks.
Our Certified Mold Inspection & Testing service provides the scientific evidence needed to create a permanent remediation plan. Our IICRC-trained inspectors use advanced tools like thermal imaging and sensitive moisture meters to locate hidden moisture sources, even behind walls. We collect air samples and surface swabs, which are then analyzed by an accredited third-party laboratory. This non-biased, scientific process confirms the mold species and concentration, providing you with the necessary documentation to proceed confidently with targeted, safe, and effective mold remediation.
REVIEWS
Our 3-Step Mold Inspection & Testing Process
Visual Assessment and Moisture Mapping
We conduct a thorough visual inspection of the property, utilizing thermal imaging and non-penetrating moisture meters to accurately map out the extent of moisture saturation and pinpoint the exact source of water intrusion.
Sample Collection and Accredited Lab Analysis
We collect air samples (for comparison of indoor vs. outdoor airborne spore counts) and surface samples (swabs or tape lifts) from affected areas. These are sent to an accredited, independent third-party laboratory for scientific analysis and species identification.
Comprehensive Report and Remediation Protocol
We deliver a detailed report summarizing the findings, identifying the mold species, and confirming the moisture source. This report includes a clear, documented protocol detailing the necessary steps for safe, IICRC-compliant mold remediation.
Q&A
Why is an independent, third-party lab analysis important for mold testing?
Using an independent, accredited laboratory ensures the analysis is objective and scientifically defensible. Since we are the remediation contractor, having the testing done by a third party eliminates any conflict of interest, providing you and your insurance carrier with a non-biased, verified assessment of the mold species and the concentration of airborne spores present in your Portland property.
Does your inspection process identify the source of the moisture, or just the mold itself?
Our inspection process focuses primarily on identifying and mapping the moisture source, as this is the root cause of the mold growth. Using thermal imaging and moisture meters, we track the elevated moisture readings back to the point of intrusion, whether it’s a plumbing leak, foundation seepage, or condensation issue, ensuring the remediation targets the cause, not just the symptom.
What are thermal imaging cameras used for during a mold inspection?
Thermal imaging cameras detect temperature differences. When moisture is trapped behind a wall or ceiling, the evaporation process causes the surface temperature to drop slightly. The camera identifies these cooler areas, allowing the inspector to pinpoint hidden moisture pockets and potential mold growth areas without having to perform unnecessary, destructive demolition.
What specific health standards or guidelines do you use to determine if mold levels are acceptable?
While there are no federal limits for mold, we follow the best practices outlined in the IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide. We compare the indoor airborne spore count to the outdoor “control” sample. Acceptable indoor levels should be lower than the outdoor environment and should not show elevated counts of known allergenic or pathogenic species like Stachybotrys (Black Mold).
Should I have mold testing done before or after the remediation process?
We recommend testing both before and after. Pre-remediation testing establishes the baseline and scope of work. Post-remediation clearance testing (usually performed by the same third-party hygienist) is essential to verify that the remediation was 100% effective, that all airborne spores have been successfully removed, and that the environment is safe for occupants.
