What is a Mold Inspection?

Initially, a mold inspection is visual. We look closely at areas of a home where mold may be prone to grow, such as in basements, attics, crawl spaces, bathrooms, kitchens, or areas where known water infiltration has occurred. We look in utility rooms, under accessible stair wells, and in some areas you wouldn't consider.

We use special source lighting so we can see what surfaces look like in full detail. We also look at certain elements of suspect HVAC systems to identify if mold may be within ductwork or fan/coil housing units. We utilize tools such as moisture meters, hygrometers (relative humidity), fiber optic scopes (to look within wall cavities), and an Infra-Red camera which can detect moisture in walls and in ceiling systems to trace active moisture issues.

Surface and Air Sampling Practices

RTS Environmental Services only utilizes a third-party, nationally recognized, and accredited laboratory. A surface sample taken by a swab, tape slide, or by bulk sampling can be microscopically analyzed (called microanalysis) to determine the mold type. Air tests are performed by collecting a known volume of airborne particulate through a special cartridge which contains a pre-treated slide. The air is pumped at a known rate which passes over this slide depositing mold spores resident in the rooms being tested. Samples are taken inside the subject areas and outside as well in order to gain a reference to compare types of molds (Qualitative) and concentration (Quantitative) mold levels. The indoor and outdoor results are compared to indicate if there is an abnormal difference between indoor vs. outdoor.

Expert Inspections with Practical Advice

Learn and understand if there is a mold condition, moisture issue, or
air quality concern before you buy.

Independent 3rd Party Analysis Testing

Get fast turnaround air quality analysis for mold identification performed by an
independent 3rd Party Laboratory, with easy to understand results. Our onsite visual inspection service aims to identify mold and mildew concerns with practical means by understanding what molds commonly grow on building materials. If you have mold concerns in your home or building, consider our visual inspection service as a precursor to mold surface and air sampling. Be advised, often mold surface and air sampling interpretations are not guided by any known established safety threshold of mold levels. In addition, the cost associated with laboratory testing is sometimes best applied to taking care of visually identifiable concerns.

We Provide Advice to Prevent Expensive Headaches

Before you buy or remodel get additional advice to prevent problems
and remodel using the best materials.

HVAC Mold Inspections and Remediation

Reinspect the HVAC system with a visual inspection
of ducting, air handlers, and evaporator coil sets to ensure air quality.

Our Mold/Moisture Inspection is also an Education in Prevention for the Client

Our inspectors will guide you through your home and suggest methods for you to limit the spread of moisture or mold in areas commonly affected. These methods are often very simple and cost effective, saving you time and money.

Infra-Red Thermal Technology

Thermal Imaging is performed using an infrared camera. This camera is designed to detect small changes in temperature relative to the spectrum of light in the range of infrared energy. This technology helps discover building problems otherwise not visible with the human eye.