# Is mold testing even necessary? **URL:** \ **Category:** Ancillary Inspection Services\ **Created:** [January 8, 2009, 5:29pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117 "2009-01-08T17:29:00Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![vsantos](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/vsantos/32/188006_2.png) [@vsantos](https://forum.nachi.org/u/vsantos)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 5:29pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/1 "2009-01-08T17:29:00Z")
I don’t test for mold but recommend a specialist for evaluation and testing. I’ve considered the typical “tape test” applications but have stayed away from it as I believe extensive training would better serve both myself and my client before I add this ancillary service. What are your thoughts on the following? \* "Although most amateur mould inspectors (especially “Certified Mould Inspectors”) perform mould “testing,” such “tests” are virtually always invalid and virtually never needed. The “tests” usually produce useless and meaningless “data.” Legitimate mould assessors rarely perform “testing” or sampling. Instead, proper indoor mould assessments can be performed on the basis of a visual inspection.\*" Above quote from the following. [http://www.forensic-applications.com/index\_files/Page477.htm](http://www.forensic-applications.com/index_files/Page477.htm) ---
**Author:** ![mlarson](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/mlarson/32/89225_2.png) [@mlarson](https://forum.nachi.org/u/mlarson)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 5:33pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/2 "2009-01-08T17:33:28Z")
> [@vsantos](#): > > \*"Although most amateur mould inspectors (especially “Certified Mould Inspectors”) perform mould “testing,” such “tests” are virtually > > always invalid and virtually never needed. The “tests” usually produce useless and meaningless “data.” Legitimate mould assessors rarely perform “testing” or sampling. Instead, proper indoor mould assessments can be performed on the basis of a visual inspection.\*" > [http://www.forensic-applications.com/index\_files/Page477.htm](http://www.forensic-applications.com/index_files/Page477.htm) I think you would be unwise to claim you have the credentials to determine the validity of your statement. JMHO ---
**Author:** ![belliott](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/belliott/32/57038_2.png) [@belliott](https://forum.nachi.org/u/belliott)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 5:39pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/3 "2009-01-08T17:39:40Z")
Some people are not affected and some are. It is like allergies. If there is mold ,it is indication of a problem that needs to be corrected. When a client wishes a mold test , I would suggest recommending a qualified mold tester, that is certified from among the NACHI members. Why waste time dissuading anyone.? We are not scientists. ---
**Author:** ![jbraun](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/jbraun/32/536_2.png) [@jbraun](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jbraun)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 5:41pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/4 "2009-01-08T17:41:26Z")
That site was designed to support claims in court to try to show validity and to gain more legal testimony work… In mold field there are good people who try to help people who suffer from mold toxification and there are some people who get paid to appear in court as so called experts to help defend large companies who are being sued because they did not clean up the mold like they was asked. Causing harm to innocent people. Sad but true. ---
**Author:** ![jbraun](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/jbraun/32/536_2.png) [@jbraun](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jbraun)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 5:44pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/5 "2009-01-08T17:44:55Z")
If you decide to perform testing, take the training to do all types of mold testing and go only as far as you feel comfortable and your training allows. ---
**Author:** ![dgoudreau](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/dgoudreau/32/179595_2.png) [@dgoudreau](https://forum.nachi.org/u/dgoudreau)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 5:48pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/6 "2009-01-08T17:48:40Z")
there are different type of mold testing, from a ERMI test which classifies mold by DNA strain , to clearance test of course these are nothing new to people here but mold testing does have its place, it can be ordered for medical reasons or remediation. ---
**Author:** ![vsantos](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/vsantos/32/188006_2.png) [@vsantos](https://forum.nachi.org/u/vsantos)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 6:50pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/7 "2009-01-08T18:50:28Z")
> [@mlarson](#): > > I think you would be unwise to claim you have the credentials to determine the validity of your statement. > > JMHO I’m not attempting to validate the quote as it was not mine. ---
**Author:** ![mlarson](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/mlarson/32/89225_2.png) [@mlarson](https://forum.nachi.org/u/mlarson)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 6:59pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/8 "2009-01-08T18:59:53Z")
> [@vsantos](#): > > I’m not attempting to validate the quote as it was not mine. I realized that but you are endorsing “that expert” just the same, why go there at all? IMHO refering to the EPA is a better option. [Why not use what the EPA says](http://iaq.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/iaq.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=3043&p_created=1174313792&p_sid=CUOb-pnj&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPSZwX3NvcnRfYnk9JnBfZ3JpZHNvcnQ9JnBfcm93X2NudD0yMiwyMiZwX3Byb2RzPTM3MSZwX2NhdHM9JnBfcHY9MS4zNzEmcF9jdj0mcF9zZWFyY2hfdHlwZT1hbnN3ZXJzLnNlYXJjaF9ubCZwX3BhZ2U9MQ**&p_li=&p_topview=1): ``` **In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary.** Since no EPA or other federal limits have been set for mold or mold spores, sampling cannot be used to check a building's compliance with federal mold standards. Surface sampling may be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods, and interpreting results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations. ``` ---
**Author:** ![vsantos](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/vsantos/32/188006_2.png) [@vsantos](https://forum.nachi.org/u/vsantos)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 7:14pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/9 "2009-01-08T19:14:03Z")
> [@mlarson](#): > > I realized that but you are endorsing “that expert” just the same, why go there at all? I understand, you make a good point actually. Sorry if it was perceived that way as that was far from my intention. My only intention was/is to learn what others think about that statement. I’m giving people here the benefit of the doubt in believing they understand “that expert” is not the **only** expert and their views do not validate anything just because they say so. I for one do, and will continue to, recommend evaluation and testing when I find mold. ---
**Author:** ![rmaday](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/rmaday/32/581_2.png) [@rmaday](https://forum.nachi.org/u/rmaday)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 8:14pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/10 "2009-01-08T20:14:32Z")
> [@mlarson](#): > > I realized that but **you are endorsing “that expert”** just the same, why go there at all? I thought it was just a question. [quote=“vsantos, post:1, topic:35117”] **What are your thoughts on the following?** _"Although most amateur mould inspectors (especially “Certified Mould Inspectors”) perform mould “testing,” such “tests” are virtually_ _always invalid and virtually never needed. The “tests” usually produce useless and meaningless “data.” Legitimate mould assessors rarely perform “testing” or sampling. Instead, proper indoor mould assessments can be performed on the basis of a visual inspection._" Above quote from the following. [ BTW, I agree w/ Mike regarding the EPA site.](“[http://www.forensic-applications.com/index\_files/Page477.htm](http://www.forensic-applications.com/index_files/Page477.htm)”) ---
**Author:** ![mlarson](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/mlarson/32/89225_2.png) [@mlarson](https://forum.nachi.org/u/mlarson)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 8:22pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/11 "2009-01-08T20:22:15Z")
> [@rmaday](#): > > I thought it was just a question. > > You’re right. > > BTW, I agree w/ Mike regarding the EPA site. I didn’t mean to be heavy handed. Sorry. I offer mold sampling myself but don’t hard sell it. Sometimes people want to know for sure so I have the service available. I always explain that mold is common, some people have problems with it and that moisture penetration is the real issue. ---
**Author:** ![jkogel](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/e47774/32.png) [@jkogel](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jkogel)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 8:41pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/12 "2009-01-08T20:41:30Z")
Here’s a thought : Just keep calling it something that “appears to be mold, has mold-like characteristics.” I believe a lot of Home Inspectors are qualified by experience find mold, :mrgreen: and anyone can take samples for the lab. You just have to be careful describing it. So why not advertise the ability to find and sample mold as a service? Cuz you might miss a patch? Now, that’s a thought. :-k John Kogel www.allsafehome.ca ---
**Author:** ![rmaday](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/rmaday/32/581_2.png) [@rmaday](https://forum.nachi.org/u/rmaday)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 8:42pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/13 "2009-01-08T20:42:55Z")
> [@mlarson](#): > > I didn’t mean to be heavy handed. Sorry. > > I offer mold sampling myself but don’t hard sell it. > > Sometimes people want to know for sure so I have the service available. > > I always explain that mold is common,\*\* some people have problems with it and that moisture penetration is the real issue\*\*. What!? Educating the client!? ;-)😛 What a concept. :mrgreen: ---
**Author:** ![jtribuzio](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/jtribuzio/32/180196_2.png) [@jtribuzio](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jtribuzio)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 8:52pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/14 "2009-01-08T20:52:37Z")
> [@mlarson](#): > > I didn’t mean to be heavy handed. Sorry. > > I offer mold sampling myself but don’t hard sell it. > > Sometimes people want to know for sure so I have the service available. > > I always explain that mold is common, some people have problems with it and that moisture penetration is the real issue. Yes , that is what i do as well, (except for offering a mold sample) Fix the issue causing it, and b aware of any adverse reactions. ---
**Author:** ![jtribuzio](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/jtribuzio/32/180196_2.png) [@jtribuzio](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jtribuzio)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 8:54pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/15 "2009-01-08T20:54:38Z")
> [@relliott](#): > > some people are not affected and some are. > It is like allergies. > > If there is mold ,it is indication of a problem that needs to be corrected. > > When a client wishes a mold test , i would suggest recommending a qualified mold tester, that is certified from among the nachi members. > > Why waste time dissuading anyone.? > > We are not scientists. agreed - ---
**Author:** ![belliott](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/belliott/32/57038_2.png) [@belliott](https://forum.nachi.org/u/belliott)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 9:34pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/16 "2009-01-08T21:34:59Z")
I never call it mold in my report. On my first ride along with Mr Decker ,he told me that if you wish to avoid legal trouble it should be referred to as _Conditions conducive to organic growth_. That stuck with me and is what I use in my comments. Never call it mold in the report or you could be fooled some day and look like one. I have seen splattered dirt that could trick you if not very observant. I have had clients ask me about getting obvious growth tested and lets face it , sometimes that is a waste of time ,when remediation is whats needed. Does any one here actually do remediation? ---
**Author:** ![Jason\_Yost](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/54ee81/32.png) [@Jason\_Yost](https://forum.nachi.org/u/Jason_Yost)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 9:56pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/17 "2009-01-08T21:56:13Z")
Defining the necessity of a mold inspection a lot of times can be determined by the reason behind why the consumer would want the testing done to begin with. If you see something that looks like mold and don’t report it, you may not have legal problem (I’m no lawyer), but you could have a headache. I’ve been called to investigate claims for home owners that claim non-disclosure of a moisture and mold problem in a home inspection. I take information based on the person’s need for services and background information and includ that in my report as to the reason for inspection and the limitations on the inspection. I can’t get in a time machine and witness the truth behind everything that’s been going on in the buiding for the last X number of days, months, years. Anyway, I do believe there is a time and place for mold inspections. I agree with another poster on here that if you decide to do that you should get the education necessary to perform the necessary inspections the consumer may need you to perform and be able to distinguish which ones are in everyone’s best interest. ---
**Author:** ![gbell](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/gbell/32/60114_2.png) [@gbell](https://forum.nachi.org/u/gbell)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2009, 10:14pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/18 "2009-01-08T22:14:10Z")
I always recommend a mold test with my inspection. The reason being is that we had 7 or 8 hurricanes in 04 and 05. Most homes experienced some type of water intrusion. You would be amazed at the number of homes that don’t have visible mold but do have elevated mold counts. ---
**Author:** ![jbraun](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/jbraun/32/536_2.png) [@jbraun](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jbraun)\ **Post date:** [January 9, 2009, 1:31am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/19 "2009-01-09T01:31:31Z")
Also you would be surprised how often a home is tested for mold such as in a middle of a room and the test comes back as not considered toxic but the occupants are still sick. Then you start pulling inner wall samples where the moisture is just a little bit above normal and you find it. Makes me wander how many people are getting sick because the the inspector only done initial testing and told the occupant it most be something else because the tests came back good. Also, Micheal, I thought I already won that debate with you about the EPA. I even showed you an article or two that proves the EPA are hypocrites and they are over their head when it comes to understanding mold. If everybody can search back on the threads, I think it was about two years ago when I proved this several times. I really do not want to have to restate my case. ---
**Author:** ![jleahy](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/jleahy/32/59595_2.png) [@jleahy](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jleahy)\ **Post date:** [January 9, 2009, 2:13am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117/20 "2009-01-09T02:13:21Z")
I also offer mold inspections as an ancillary service. I don’t hard sell it. Sometimes clients simply want to know what type of mold is present for their own piece of mind. Others may want air sampling as additional data supporting a property has been remediated from a previous moisture intrusion problem. I agree that we can only go as far as our knowledge, training and comfort level allow us. [Next page](https://forum.nachi.org/t/is-mold-testing-even-necessary/35117.md?page=2)