When I speak to clients, I always tell them the best and most free test is to compare how they feel in the home versus out of the home. If you feel worse in the home, your body could be telling you it’s environmentally influenced. Have you had water damage in this home? Has the home been properly maintained? Is the HVAC system old, not working well and not pulling humidity out effectively? Mold comes from moisture so if your home has had water damage, current or historical these are places to check. Finally, signs of mold issues will be staining, musty odors, swelling or damaged building material, or even heavy dust accumulation.

In short, you may need a professional mold inspection if:

• You see visible mold or suspect hidden mold.
• You experience unexplained health symptoms like headaches, brain fog, fatigue, respiratory issues skin issues, or other lingering symptoms.
• There’s been recent water damage (leaks, floods, plumbing issues).
• You notice a musty odor that won’t go away.
• You’re buying or selling a home and want peace of mind about mold conditions.
• Past mold remediation was done, and you want to ensure the issue is fully resolved.

This may be the wrong question. Tests are tools to be used and can be used effectively or can be completely wasted and misleading. My philosophy (along with countless other professionals) is that Testing is secondary. See my YouTube channel for much more in-depth explanation about the proper philosophy and strategy of mold testing. Every mold test has its strengths and weaknesses, and must be used effectively in response to a detailed assessment of the home. Rather than relying on a test to give all the answers, the knowledge of the home, its history, and all of the data that is collected on an inspection are the most important factors prior to testing. Then, choose a test with a specific goal in mind. 

A Melrose Mold Solutions inspection is a comprehensive assessment of your home’s indoor environment. It includes:

• A multi-hour detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas for signs of mold and moisture issues.
• Use of advanced tools such as moisture meters, thermal imaging, and boroscope cameras to detect hidden moisture.
• Strategic sampling (if necessary) to determine mold species and contamination levels.
• A thorough review of ventilation, humidity levels, and airflow to assess risk factors for mold growth.
• A personalized action plan, including recommendations for remediation, prevention, and proactive maintenance.
• Peace of mind and Confidence so that your next steps are most effective in achieving a mold safe home. 

No, mold is a natural part of our environment, and spores are always present in the air. However, the goal is to maintain a mold-safe home, meaning that mold levels are kept at a minimal and manageable level to ensure that your home is not the key contributor to your symptomes and blocking or slowing your body’s natural healing process and ability. I always say “let’s make the goal realistic and aim for 70%-80% as good as we can get the home to ensure healthy indoor air quality and home performance. This is subjective and a custom plan is needed for each person and each home. However, all of the key factors to a healthy home will include moisture and humidity control, circulation and ventilation, lowering dust content, and proper home maintenance.

See my YouTube Channel for more details on this topic among other mold educational resources. 

A qualified remediation company should:

• Be certified in AND closely follow IICRC S520 Mold Remediation Standards.
• Use HEPA filtration and negative air pressure containment as needed.
• Remove mold-contaminated materials rather than “killing,” “treating” or fogging or spraying chemicals. Mold must be removed properly and methodically.
• Provide a detailed, itemized remediation scope rather than vague promises.
• And more 

We help clients vet remediation companies to ensure they choose a reliable team.

Prevention is key to long-term success.

First off, ensure that the remediation was done properly, effectively and completely. 

Then follow these steps:

• Fix moisture sources (leaks, high humidity, drainage issues)
• Improve airflow & ventilation (use exhaust fans, open windows, air purifiers)
• Monitor indoor humidity (keep it below 50%)
• Use HEPA filtration (in air purifiers & vacuums)
• Perform routine cleaning with microfiber cloths and HEPA vacuums

Mold thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas. Common locations include:

• Bathrooms (behind tiles, around toilets, under sinks)
• Basements & crawlspaces (high humidity, poor ventilation)
• HVAC systems (dirty filters, condensation issues, heavy dust build up, improperly sized or functioning system, damaged duct work, and more)
• Kitchens (under sinks, behind appliances)
• Attics (roof leaks, poor insulation)

Our comprehensive in-person mold inspections range from depending on the size of your property, the complexity of the assessment, the type of foundation, the amount of HVAC systems, number of samples needed, as well as potential travel expenses. For those who prefer a remote option, we offer virtual mold consulting at a lower cost, providing expert guidance based on our 40 question questionnaire, as well as photos, videos, and test results (if applicable).

No. The third party inspection focuses on identifying mold sources, risk factors, and solutions. (Think of us as an objective “Diagnostic Doctor” and the Remediation/Mold Removal and Cleaning Company as the “Home-Surgeon” If remediation is needed, we provide clear, unbiased guidance (through a site-specific protocol) on the proper steps to take. We also help you vet remediation professionals to ensure the job is done correctly. The IICRC s520 standards is what we follow when giving recommendations and we utilize our Certifications in this area. 

You’ll receive a detailed report outlining:

• Findings from the inspection.
• Areas of concern and moisture sources.
• If applicable, mold test results with lab analysis and what to do as a result.
• A step-by-step action plan for IICRC s520 Mold Remediation, as well as prevention and maintenance advice.
• Recommendations for products and how to vet trusted professionals if remediation is needed.

Yes. We offer virtual services for homeowners who want expert guidance without an in-person visit. We provide:

• A thorough 40+ Question Questionnaire to help us most effectively help you and understand your health and the health of your home. 
• Photo and video assessment to identify problem areas.
• Test result interpretations to help you understand mold reports.
• DIY inspection guidance so you can check your home yourself.
• Remediation plan reviews to ensure you’re not overpaying for unnecessary work.
• Helping in the home search process. 
• The goal of this service is to provide peace of mind and confidence on your next step.