FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Technically, yes, some molds are capable of producing airborne mycotoxins. However, the quantity of toxins is extremely small and no medical study to date has found evidence of health implications.

The term ‘black mold’ is often heard in the media, however, it is not a scientific designation. Many types of mold are black in color, and even more confusing, some are found in a variety of colors.

Stachybotrys has often found itself in the media spotlight, mostly due to its ability to produce mycotoxins. In years past, stachybotrys was implicated in several cases of severe illness and even infant fatalities. However, upon closer scrutiny, the medical community determined toxic mold was not a contributing factor.

In our experience, if dealt with properly, buyers are relatively comfortable purchasing a home with a prior mold problem. This is only possible if proper remediation protocol was followed.

You should hire a mold expert because:

• Standard contractors create more mold problems than they solve.
• Our lifetime warranty
• Mold-specific insurance (very difficult to obtain)
• Experts in diagnosing moisture issues to ensure the mold growth does not return
• Final documentation including pictures, moisture tests, and air quality samples.

These are some key factors you should look for:

• Certification
• Insurance
• Experience/ Previous Clients
• Training/ Equipment
• Longevity

Mold sampling is recommended when:

• You are unsure of contamination.
• You need to determine if cross-contamination has occurred.
• There are musty odors present.
• You would like peace of mind….. rule something in or out.

There are some very key differences, some of these include:

• Mold inspectors look for moisture & air quality related problems
• Mold inspectors have expertise in water damage, fungal and biological contamination
• Mold inspectors are experts in ventilation, air quality, leak detection and moisture management
• Mold inspectors use professional meters and imaging equipment.
• We provide you with a report that covers scope of ventilation, contamination, and appropriate remediation.

Some of the most common problem areas are:

• Attics
• Crawlspaces
• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Garage
• Basement

Because many of our customers are involved in time sensitive real estate transactions, we must maintain a quick response time. Within the Puget Sound, we maintain a maximum 2 day lead time from the phone call to inspection. Often, we can arrive in even less time. If laboratory air samples are collected, an additional 24 to 48 hours is required. Rush analysis is also available for clients on a strict timeline.

In the past, many insurers included coverage for mold damage. Due to many frivolous and expensive claims, the majority of policies now either limit or exclude mold related coverage. However, mold growth is also related to a moisture issue, and often the moisture issue is covered. For example, if a broken pipe led to water damage and mold growth occurred, much of the work would be covered. Insurance companies are required to restore an insured home to pre-loss condition. Long standing issues such as mold growth in attics, are rarely covered.