Whether you’re a property owner, buyer, or seller, mold remains a major concern for businesses and commercial properties. Mold exists naturally and can be found in various environments, both indoors and outdoors. It can enter the premises through windows, doors, and HVAC systems. Mold thrives in humid environments, such as areas with leaky roofs and pipes, bathrooms, and areas with water damage.
Left unaddressed, the presence of mold can have a significant impact on the health of employees and visitors. Even small exposure to mold spores can cause mild allergic reactions, while extensive exposure can trigger asthma attacks and other respiratory issues. The health effects and symptoms can vary from person to person. Are you concerned that mold may have infested your business or commercial property?
At Florida Inspections Unlimited, we offer professional mold inspection and testing services for commercial properties in Miami and throughout South Florida. Our team will thoroughly examine all areas that may harbor mold and conduct indoor air quality testing to determine the levels of mold present. Our inspectors are experienced in commercial settings and will provide you with a detailed report, including digital pictures, advising what type of mold is present and if the levels are considered elevated or not elevated levels. We will ensure the indoor air quality and provide professional recommendations for addressing any mold issues, whether you’re buying, selling, or currently own the property.
Performing a Commercial Mold Inspection Assessment:
Our mold assessors are licensed and insured by the state of Florida. A professional mold inspection or mold assessment evaluation includes not only sampling but also a visual inspection to detect issues and problems related to mold concerns. If you feel mold is present in your commercial building, it is crucial to address any elevated levels.
When conducting a mold inspection and testing for commercial properties, we provide a detailed digital report with pictures, an interior and exterior inspection, a moisture survey of the property, humidity and temperature readings, laboratory samples, and a thermal imaging infrared camera inspection to identify any moisture or water intrusion areas of concern. After the mold inspection is performed, and if elevated levels of mold are found, it is recommended to hire a mold remediation company to remediate the mold present. It is recommended to conduct a clearance test and post-remediation testing.
Taking the Guesswork out of Mold Testing for Commercial Spaces:
There are two main types of mold samples in commercial settings: air and surface. The air test is of utmost importance, and it must be conducted both outside and inside the building. The surface test is performed when visible evidence of mold is present. We prefer using conditioned swabs for surface testing. The swabs are hermetically sealed in a container until the time the sample is collected and then resealed.
Air Test: Mold spores can be present in the air both outside and inside commercial buildings. Mold spores can enter the premises through windows and doors. The significance of the mold level or concentration inside compared to outside determines the severity of the issue. One air sample test accurately describes the amount of spores in the air at the time of the test, which can vary from moment to moment or day by day. The air test is usually performed once per 1000 square feet indoors and once outdoors. Conducting an outdoor test serves as a baseline or reference to compare the spore count indoors.
Surface Test: A surface test is conducted when there is visible evidence of mold on surfaces within the commercial space. This test helps identify the type of mold present on that surface. While it does not identify the exact species, it categorizes the mold into a specific family. There are over one million different species of mold, and the swab test performed during the inspection aids in identifying the family of species.
Important: If mold remediation is necessary, it is crucial to find a qualified remediation contractor who will take extreme care to remove the contaminated materials without further contaminating the commercial space. Many remediation contractors utilize specialized equipment, such as large vacuums and containment measures, to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. It is essential to conduct an air test after remediation by a third-party individual to ensure the effectiveness of the remediation process and confirm that the commercial space is free from mold contamination.
Mold Facts You Should Know
- Excess water is the root cause, leading to mold growth.
- Mold can rapidly develop and release spores within just 24-48 hours.
- Many molds thrive in temperatures that are comfortable for us.
- Inhaling airborne mold can pose health risks.
- Mold growth can negatively impact your health, whether at home, the office, or school.
- Respiratory issues like wheezing, breathing difficulties, and shortness of breath can arise.
- Irritation of the nose or throat may occur.
- Skin rashes or irritation can be a result of mold exposure.
Did you know?
Many individuals are unaware of the health risks associated with mold, despite spending up to 90% of their time indoors. Here are some potential concerns to be mindful of:
- Bathroom and shower leaks, as well as condensation, can contribute to mold growth.
- Roofing problems and leaks can create favorable conditions for mold.
- Plumbing leaks should be promptly addressed to prevent mold development.
- Inadequate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens can promote moisture buildup and mold growth.
- High levels of moisture leading to mold issues.
- Air leaks around windows and doors can allow moisture to enter, potentially causing mold growth.
- HVAC systems should be assessed for mold presence to ensure indoor air quality.
- Water intrusion, such as from flooding or leaks, can lead to mold growth if not addressed promptly.
- Attic condensation should be monitored to prevent mold formation.
The quality of air in your commercial space is crucial for the health and well-being of your employees and clients. Contaminants such as volatile organic compounds and toxic gases can pose serious health risks. As an accredited and fully certified Miami mold inspection and indoor air quality inspection company, we specialize in providing comprehensive Indoor Air Quality Testing and consulting services for commercial clients in Florida. Our team of professionals is equipped to handle indoor air quality inspections for a wide range of commercial properties. We utilize advanced testing equipment and techniques to accurately measure the presence of harmful substances. Contact us today at 305-910-1171 (Miami Dade County) or 954-861-0666 (Broward County) to schedule an inspection and ensure the safety of your commercial environment.