How do I know if I have a moisture or mold problem?+
Common indicators include a musty odour, stains on walls or ceilings, excessive condensation, and a history of water damage or flooding. The investigation focuses on identifying the observable moisture source.
Is air testing always necessary?+
No. In many situations, visual identification of the moisture source and building conditions is more useful than sampling. Laboratory sampling is added when confirmation or documentation is useful.
Does the investigation diagnose health problems?+
No. The investigation documents the visible and accessible conditions of the building and indoor air. For health symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
How much does an investigation cost?+
The rate is custom-quoted based on the scope of the investigation, number of zones, whether laboratory sampling is needed, and the area to cover. Contact us for a quote tailored to your situation.
See our detailed pricing for context on other services.
What is the difference between the investigation and sampling?+
The investigation documents visible conditions, moisture sources and building defects. Laboratory sampling (surface or air) adds analytical confirmation when useful; results reflect only the sample collected, at the time and location of collection.
What is the difference between mold inspection, mold test and industrial hygienist?+
Our mold inspection documents visible indicators of mold (stains, odours, favourable conditions) and environmental conditions favouring development (moisture, deficient ventilation, infiltration). We don't make species diagnosis (Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, Penicillium, etc.) or airborne concentration measurements. Proper mold testing (sampling and accredited laboratory analysis) falls under an industrial hygienist or qualified microbiologist. The two services are complementary: we identify indicators, the hygienist quantifies risk.
What types of mold are dangerous to health?+
Several mold genera can affect health: Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) — most publicised, produces mycotoxins; Aspergillus (several species) — risk for immunocompromised; Penicillium — common allergens; Cladosporium — allergens; Alternaria — triggers asthma. Important: species identification, spore counting and individual health risk assessment fall under a qualified industrial hygienist or microbiologist after sampling and accredited laboratory analysis. Our role is to document visible indicators and favourable conditions.
What cost for mold testing with sampling and laboratory analysis?+
Costs vary by sampling type: surface sample (tape lift, swab): $80-150/sample + lab fees ($150-300/sample analysed), air sampling (impaction cassette): $200-400/sample + analysis $200-400/sample, complete industrial hygienist evaluation: $1,500-5,000 for typical residential property. Our mold inspection is a visual documentation service at standard inspection rates (see our pricing). For testing/analysis, contact an industrial hygienist.
What to do if I find mold or suspect poor air quality?+
Step 1: Document visually (dated photos, surface area measurements). Step 2: Identify the moisture source (infiltration, condensation, leak, ventilation deficiency). Step 3: Our inspection can document visible indicators and identify favourable conditions. Step 4: For health risk assessment, consult an industrial hygienist who will perform sampling and accredited laboratory analysis (search \
Do you specifically inspect basements, crawl spaces and attics for mold?+
Yes. These 3 zones are highest-risk in Quebec properties: finished basements without adequate vapor barrier (very common in 1960-1990 bungalows finished in 1970-1990) — chronic moisture and mold behind walls. Crawl spaces — soil moisture, insufficient ventilation, deficient insulation. Attics — winter condensation (deficient HRV or ventilation), roof infiltration. Our inspection systematically documents visible indicators in these 3 zones with thermographic photos where relevant.