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Mold Inspection in New Castle, PA

Find out whether you have a mold problem and, more importantly, where the moisture is coming from. Get a free estimate online.

Who is a mold inspection for?

People usually call after they smell something musty, notice dark spots on a wall or ceiling, or have a home that has had water in it. Buyers call when an earlier inspection hinted at moisture. Landlords and tenants sometimes need an objective view when there is disagreement about what is going on.

Western Pennsylvania's damp seasons, older basements and aging roofs create plenty of places for moisture to collect. The home does not have to be neglected for this to happen: a slow leak behind a wall can go unnoticed for months.

The goal of the inspection is to replace worry with information. It answers where the moisture is, what it has affected and what should be done about it.

An important point: seeing or smelling mold is a symptom, and the moisture behind it is the cause. Cleaning a stain without fixing the leak only buys a few weeks. The inspection is built to find the cause so repairs actually stick.

What does a mold inspection cover?

The work is moisture first, sampling second:

  • Interview about water history, odors, past repairs and concerns
  • Visual assessment of walls, ceilings, floors, basements, crawl spaces and attics
  • Moisture investigation to locate leaks, condensation and damp materials
  • Review of drainage, gutters, grading and ventilation as moisture sources
  • Air or surface sampling when warranted by what is found
  • Photo documentation of conditions and affected areas
  • Written results with a clear explanation of what they mean
  • Guidance on the type of specialist or repair that comes next

Mold inspections report conditions at the time of the visit. Hidden growth inside walls may not be visible without invasive work. This service does not include remediation.

How it works and what you get

When you call, Will asks about the history of the property and what you have noticed. On site he inspects, takes moisture readings and photographs what he finds. If sampling is warranted, he explains why before collecting anything. The written report arrives the same day or within 24 to 48 hours for visual findings, with lab results following when samples are sent.

Want to understand the problem in general first? Read our guide to mold after water damage.

Why an independent veteran Certified Master Inspector?

Inspectors who also sell remediation have a reason to find more mold. Semper Fi inspects only, and is independent of agents and sellers. Will Kuhn is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with a construction background, a Certified Master Inspector (CMI, CCMI), InterNACHI member, and holds CCPIA, IAC2 and MC/RC certifications, with errors and omissions and general liability insurance.

Ready? Contact Will or get a free estimate online.

A mold inspection pairs well with a home inspection when you are buying. Ask about combining the two so moisture findings and general condition are reviewed in a single visit.

Related inspections and pages

Mold after water damageA plain-language guideRadon testingAnother air-quality testHome inspectionFull-scope reviewWhat an inspection coversKnow what to expectExpert witnessForensic documentation

Common questions

What does a mold inspection involve?
A mold inspection starts with a visual assessment and a moisture investigation to find water sources and affected areas. Air or surface sampling is added when it is warranted. Findings and any laboratory results come in a written report with photos.
How do I know if I need a mold inspection?
Common reasons include a musty smell, visible staining or growth, past leaks or flooding, condensation, and a home purchase where moisture was suspected. If anyone in the home has unexplained symptoms, talk to a health professional. An inspection looks at the building, not people.
Is air sampling always necessary?
No. Sampling is used when it will answer a real question, such as confirming hidden growth or comparing indoor air to outdoors. Many situations are solved by finding and stopping the moisture source. Will tells you whether sampling makes sense for your case.
Can you remove the mold?
No. Semper Fi inspects and reports. Keeping inspection separate from remediation avoids a conflict of interest, since the same company is not profiting from the cleanup it recommends. You can use the report to get bids from qualified contractors.
What causes mold in a house?
Mold grows where there is moisture and organic material. Causes include roof or plumbing leaks, poor drainage, high humidity, condensation and unventilated bathrooms or basements. Fixing the water problem is the key to keeping mold from coming back.
When will I get the results?
The visual findings are photo-documented and reported the same day or within 24 to 48 hours. If samples are sent to a laboratory, the lab results come after analysis, and Will will explain them in writing.
How do I get a price?
Cost depends on the property and whether sampling is included. Please get a free estimate online or call 878-300-6621.

Ready to schedule?

Get your free estimate online, or call Will directly at 878-300-6621.

Get a free estimateCall 878-300-6621