Are you moving into a new house? Planning on submitting an offer on a new commercial property? Do you simply suspect mold because you can’t stop coughing? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you may want to schedule a black mold inspection. 

A black mold inspection can find mold, hopefully before it spreads and gets worse. Doing so makes it easier to treat. If you’re interested in booking an appointment, here’s everything you need to know about doing so. 

What Is Black Mold and Why Is It a Threat? 

Black mold is a common type of household fungi. Like other types of household molds, it needs the right environment to thrive. This includes a food source, exposure to moisture, and humidity. If these elements are present, black mold can grow. It’s also because of these elements that black mold is most common in basements, attics, and bathrooms. 

The reality is that you’ve likely spent lots of time in houses with black mold. This is because the term “black mold” refers to a number of different molds. However, one of them – Stachybotrys chartarum – is considered toxic. 

Stachybotrys chartarum is known to sometimes release airborne toxins, so they are easy to unknowingly breathe in. It can be recognized by its black or green color. However, so can countless types of mold. To the average Portland homeowner, it’s hard to distinguish between a toxic mold and a non-toxic mold just by looking at it. This is why hiring a professional with a trained eye is so important. 

What Is a Black Mold Inspection? 

A black mold inspection is when a trained technician performs a visual inspection of your property. During this assessment, they will look for signs of mold. This includes but isn’t limited to: 

• Black, green, gray, and other colors of patches, spots, or growths
• Spongy floor tiles
• Wet spots/signs of water damage
• Musky odors

Since black mold is common in areas with high humidity and moisture, your technician will inspect these areas first. If mold is detected, they will collect samples to determine what type of mold it is. This will allow them to determine the best corrective action to take. 

After collecting the mold samples, they will then look for the source of the water damage. Mold remediation, which will be needed next, requires treating the underlying problem first. Without it, you’re essentially putting a band-aid over it. It’s a temporary solution to what will be an ongoing problem if left untreated. 

Once they determine the underlying problem, they will discuss a remediation plan with you. This will likely include hiring a plumber to address the water problem. Then it will require you booking a mold remediation appointment. 

Like the inspection itself, a mold remediation session starts with assessing the mold. However, since there will already be a plan in place, this step won’t be necessary. 

How Long Does the Average Black Mold Inspection Take?

The answer is that it depends on how big your property is. That being said, on average, black mold inspections are usually pretty quick. You can expect your inspection to wrap up in about one to two hours. 

Signs of Mold All Portland Homeowners Should Be Aware Of

If you’re moving onto a brand-new property, getting a black mold inspection can help you determine if you have mold. However, since you’re not living there, you likely aren’t privy to the signs of it. 

Over time, it’s normal for homes to develop small batches of mold. To catch it early on, look out for the following signs: 

• Groups of dark spots
• Foul, musky odors
• Rot

Also, be mindful of physical symptoms such as: 

• Headaches
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Ongoing coughing or wheezing
• Difficulty sleeping

Though many black molds don’t cause serious issues, they can trigger symptoms in the young, elderly, and those with existing respiratory issues. In fact, this is another big reason why you should schedule an inspection for black mold. If anyone in your family meets this criteria, getting the home checked for mold can combat symptoms before they even develop. 

Schedule a Black Mold Inspection with the Pros at PNW Restoration Today!

Mold can be a hassle to deal with. Being proactive and booking a black mold inspection with PNW Restoration can ensure that the damage doesn’t get too severe. Whether you have mold or you want to ensure you don’t, the team at PNW Restoration can help. 

We have years of experience inspecting homes for mold. If we find it, you can trust us to treat it at the source so it doesn’t come back. Don’t let your Portland home fall victim to unwanted and unnecessary mold damage. Instead, fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment. Black mold inspections are available to the residents of Portland, Aloha, West Linn, and beyond.