Generally speaking is there anything wrong with doing a “preliminary test” for mold, radon, asbestos with the “ProLab” (or similar kits)? I’m not a licensed mold/radon inspector, just a regular home inspector. Is there a problem with using a test kit to at least determine if further evaluation is needed, generally speaking?
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If your State requires a license, you cannot do anything related to those services without holding said license.
In my state, they prohibit unlicensed persons from even discussing the services with other parties! -
In most all States, those services must be Pre-approved, usually in the PIA, by the Seller/Homeowner prior to performing any of the services in any manner!
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Here’s the issue…
You do a “preliminary” test and everything seems fine. Now your client doesn’t do a legitimate test.
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You have PA in your name, so I’m assuming you service Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania requires licensing to provide radon testing.
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I’m working on the Radon licensing as we speak. Not sure if it’ll amount to anything in my area.
We have more inspectors than we have homes for sale around here.
I’m wondering what kind of luck ppl are having with ProLab. I’ve had clients buy and do their own test with ProLab kits because they are on site anyway and figure they can save and do the tests on their own for their own knowledge (not for my report). As they do this I wonder how ProLab works out for everyone. I have used their kits on my own properties to check for asbestos and mold and have had quick results that made sense.
PA requires separate licensing for mold also, though I’m not sure about lead or asbestos.
We have been using pro labs for 4 years now for mold only. It seems to be working well. We do around 10-15 mold jobs a year, mostly for people with severe mold reactions. Its not a bad turn around time. We use monitors for radon.
I am in a non-regulated state and would not consider any preliminary testing.
For example, we have inspectors here in this state who perform a preliminary radon spot test. The test lasts two hours and is a sham.
My suggestion is to operate with integrity and in full compliance with your state. Half-stepping will not serve anyone.
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In my opinion, anyone doing a test for a client (paid or unpaid) should be trained in the field that they are testing for. Training helps you to know how to properly test, explain test results, and know local requirements for tester/testing (if any).
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