Many Naples and Ft Myers home inspectors just collect air samples for mold, this only indicates wether
you need a "real" mold inspection. The new Florida law, effective in 2010 should eliminate this problem. Mold
inspectors should identify the source of a mold problem, the extent of the problem and what should be done to correct the
problem based on accepted nationally reconized industry standards.
Never use just air samples(mold test)to determine if remediation is needed.
"remember that a negative sampling report must not be used in place of a visual
survey. Factors such as barometric
pressure, inside and outside temperatures, activity levels, and humidity may dramatically reduce or increase the spore levels
within a building. Air sampling for mold provides information on what was in the air only for the moment when the sampling
occurred. It is important, therefore, that sampling not replace visual inspection."
"Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling
protocols, sampling methods, and
interpreting the results."EPA
This
course provides an overview of mold prevention and mold remediation. It is based on EPA's voluntary guidance document Mold Remediation
in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Public health and environmental health professionals
who are involved with mold issues may be interested in this course. Building managers, custodians, remediators, contractors,
and other professionals who respond to mold problems may also want to refer to this course.
EPA