How much does mold testing cost?

Mold testing typically costs $150-$300 depending on the number of samples needed. Air sampling starts at $150 for 2 samples (indoor + outdoor baseline). Additional samples or surface testing adds to the cost. Lab analysis is included in pricing.

When should I get mold testing?

Consider mold testing when: you see visible mold growth, you smell musty odors, there's been water damage or flooding, occupants have unexplained respiratory symptoms, thermal imaging reveals hidden moisture, or you're buying a home with history of water issues.

What's the difference between mold inspection and mold testing?

Mold inspection is visual examination for signs of mold and moisture problems. Mold testing involves collecting samples (air or surface) and sending them to a laboratory for analysis to identify mold types and spore counts. Testing provides objective data; inspection provides context and identifies sources.

Does Colorado require mold disclosure when selling a home?

Colorado sellers must disclose known material defects, which includes known mold problems. If you're aware of current or past mold issues, disclosure is required. A mold test before listing can document current conditions.

Mold Testing & Inspection | Quality Home Inspections LLC

When to Consider Mold Testing

Not every home needs mold testing, but certain situations warrant professional evaluation:

Visible mold growth: Testing identifies the type of mold and helps determine appropriate remediation
Musty odors: That characteristic smell often indicates hidden mold growth
Water damage history: Past flooding, leaks, or water intrusion creates conditions for mold
Health concerns: Unexplained respiratory symptoms, allergies, or reactions in occupants
Thermal imaging findings: When our infrared camera reveals hidden moisture
Real estate transactions: Buying a home with known or suspected water issues
Post-remediation verification: Confirming successful mold removal

Colorado's Dry Climate: While our region is generally dry, mold still thrives in areas with moisture problems—basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, around windows, and anywhere water intrusion occurs. Don't assume dry climate means no mold risk.

Our Mold Testing Services

🌬️ Air Quality Sampling

Captures airborne mold spores for laboratory analysis. Includes indoor sample(s) and outdoor baseline for comparison. Identifies mold types and concentration levels.

Starting at $150

🔬 Surface Sampling

Direct samples from visible growth or suspected areas. Tape lift or swab methods. Identifies specific mold species present on surfaces.

$75 per sample

Moisture Evaluation

Moisture meter readings and thermal imaging to identify water sources feeding mold growth. Essential for effective remediation planning.

Included with testing

Lab Analysis & Report

Samples analyzed by accredited laboratory. Detailed report identifies mold types, spore counts, and comparison to outdoor baseline levels.

Included in pricing

Understanding Mold Test Results

Laboratory analysis provides specific information about mold in your home:

What the Lab Report Shows

Mold species identified: Different molds have different health implications
Spore counts: Quantity of mold spores per cubic meter of air
Indoor vs. outdoor comparison: Indoor counts significantly higher than outdoor baseline indicate a problem
Species distribution: Some molds are common outdoors; finding high levels of "indoor molds" suggests active growth

Interpreting Results

There's no universal "safe" or "unsafe" mold level—sensitivity varies by individual. However, we look for:

Indoor spore counts significantly elevated above outdoor levels
Presence of mold species associated with water damage (Stachybotrys, Chaetomium, etc.)
Species diversity that differs from outdoor sample
Correlation between sample locations and moisture sources

Important: We provide testing and factual reporting. We are not medical professionals and cannot advise on health effects. If you have health concerns, consult with your physician.

The Testing Process

1. Initial Consultation

We discuss your concerns, any symptoms, visible issues, and water history to determine appropriate testing approach.

2. Visual Inspection

Before sampling, we inspect the area looking for visible mold, moisture sources, water staining, and conditions that promote mold growth.

3. Moisture Assessment

Using moisture meters and thermal imaging, we identify areas of elevated moisture that may be feeding mold growth.

4. Sample Collection

Air samples are collected using calibrated pumps that draw air through collection cassettes. Surface samples use tape lifts or swabs. We always collect an outdoor baseline sample for comparison.

5. Laboratory Analysis

Samples are shipped to an accredited laboratory for analysis. Results typically return within 3-5 business days.

6. Report Delivery

You receive the laboratory report along with our interpretation explaining what the results mean and any recommended next steps.

Mold Testing for Home Buyers

If you're buying a home with mold concerns, testing provides objective data for decision-making:

When Buyers Should Test

Visible staining or discoloration suggesting past water damage
Musty smell during showing or inspection
Disclosed history of flooding, leaks, or water intrusion
Basement or crawl space moisture concerns
Previous mold remediation (verify success)

Using Results in Negotiations

Laboratory results provide documented evidence for repair requests or price negotiations. Results showing elevated mold levels support requests for professional remediation before closing.

Mold Testing Pricing

Basic Air Sampling (2 samples): $150 — One indoor location + outdoor baseline
Comprehensive Air Sampling (4 samples): $250 — Multiple indoor locations + outdoor baseline
Surface Samples: $75 each — Direct sampling from visible growth
Additional Air Samples: $75 each — Beyond initial package

All pricing includes laboratory analysis and detailed reporting. Testing can be added to any home inspection or scheduled separately.

Combined with Inspection: When added to a home inspection, we can correlate mold findings with thermal imaging results, moisture readings, and visual observations for a complete picture of the situation.

What We Don't Do

To maintain objectivity and avoid conflicts of interest:

We don't perform mold remediation: We test and report; we don't profit from finding problems
We don't provide medical advice: Health concerns should be discussed with physicians
We don't guarantee "mold-free": Mold spores are everywhere; we identify elevated or problematic levels

If remediation is needed, we can recommend qualified mold remediation professionals in Northern Colorado.

Mold Testing & Inspection