When Is a Mold Test Necessary?

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Mold could be lurking in your home, and you don’t even know it. Increased mold exposure could cause health problems, including respiratory infections, and difficulties breathing if underlying conditions exist.

You won’t always see or smell mold in your home. That’s why a mold test is going to be necessary. You want to make sure that your home is free of mold.

Is a mold test really necessary? Read on to find out when you should get a mold test.

1. Before Buying a Home

Buying a home is exciting and nerve-racking at the same time. The home of your dreams can quickly turn into a nightmare if there are issues with the home that you’re not aware of until after you get the keys.

You’ll get a home inspection, but that doesn’t always cover a mold inspection or mold testing. The inspector would have to see mold during the inspection. Mold could be on the inside of the wall, missing the inspector’s keen eye.

If you’re a renter, you may want to test for mold before you sign a lease, especially if you are planning to move to an area that has a lot of rain and old homes. These homes may not have proper ventilation and mold could build up in the home.

2. You Have Respiratory Issues

Mold doesn’t always cause health issues, but it can for people that already have underlying conditions. If you have respiratory problems, are elderly, or planning to have a baby, you should check the air quality in your home.

Mold testing will tell you what the air quality is in your home and if mold is present.

3. There Are Leaks in Your Home

Moisture is a haven for mold spores, especially if the air is warm. Leaks are a source of moisture in your home, which means that they can be a breeding ground for mold.

After you fix the leaks, get a mold test to have peace of mind that leaks didn’t lead to mold issues.

4. You Just Had Mold Removed

Mold remediation costs thousands of dollars. Mold spores multiply quickly, and if there was an area of mold that was missed in the remediation, you could wind up with another mold problem.

Get a mold test done right after a mold remediation project to ensure that there’s nothing left to chance.

5. You Filed an Insurance Claim

Did you file a claim with your insurance company for mold problems? They’ll need to see proof of mold. The insurance company’s adjusters will want to see pictures of mold.

If the mold can’t be seen, then mold testing would be an option. The results of the test will be sent to the insurance company, and you can collect your claim.