Mold Testing - Should I Have Mold Testing Performed?

It depends. Sometimes mold testing is not necessary. For example, if there is a known roof leak that led to mold growth in a known, confined area, you should take appropriate actions, including fixing the roof leak and having the mold removed in an appropriate and safe manner.

There are many situations where taking a mold sample does not add any value and is not necessary. However, if you are purchasing a new home and suspect that evidence of a water problem or a mold problem may have been covered up, then mold testing might be helpful. So whether you should have mold testing performed depends on your actual situation, your budget and other concerns. Here are situations for you to consider:

Situation #1
If the mold testing results will not affect what you do, then you probably don't need mold testing. From our two examples above:

With the roof leak, testing and identifying the mold would not change the fact that you should fix the leak and have the mold removed.

With the home purchase, having evidence of unusually high levels of mold spores in the house could significantly change the terms of the real estate transaction or even whether the transaction continues.

Stachybotrys and small amount of Alternaria on unpainted drywall
Stachybotrys and small amount of Alternaria on unpainted drywall.
Source: EMLab P&K

Situation #2
Mold tests are not perfect. False negative and false positive results do somtimes occur. Mold testing results are one piece of information, sometimes an important piece. But other pieces of information are also needed and are often more important and should take precedence over the mold testing results. For example, a good visual inspection of the property is usually essential for a good mold investigation and often more important than the mold testing results.

Penicillium and Cladosporium colonization on subflooring and supports.
Source: EMLab P&K

So sometimes mold testing is not necessary. But if you want peace of mind for your specific situation, you should consult with a qualified mold inspector.

Should I Have Mold Testing Performed?

Next: "The Truth About Toxic Molds"
And: "How Much Does Mold Testing Cost?"

Previous: "What Is Mold Testing? How Is Mold Testing Performed?"

Should I Have Mold Testing Performed?

Next: "The Truth About Toxic Molds" And: "How Much Does Mold Testing Cost?"

Previous: "What Is Mold Testing? How Is Mold Testing Performed?"

Next: "The Truth About Toxic Molds"
And: "How Much Does Mold Testing Cost?"