Basic Inspection Process/ Multi-Point Inspection Plan

Check For Mold's Multi-Point Mold Inspection Plan gives our inspectors a guideline to follow when assessing properties for mold and moisture intrusion problems. 

1) Roof – NOTE: We will only walk on asphalt shingle or flat roofs when is safe to do so. Properties with concrete or Spanish style clay tiles will not be walked on. We are looking for build up of debris in the rain gutters, valleys and roof to wall intersections. We will also pay close attention to the flashing around your chimney, and skylights (if applicable). 

2) Rain Gutters/Downspouts – Built-up debris in rain gutters can cause insufficient water drainage along roof lines, and lead to water intrusion. Downspouts should be free from debris, which can clog downspouts. Downspouts should be properly attached to the exterior walls, and be pointed away from the property’s foundation. 

3) Weep Screeds - The soil line along your property’s exterior walls should be 6-12 inches below the weep screeds. This will allow for proper drainage or “weeping” of moisture out of exterior walls. When soil is built-up, and covering weep screeds, moisture intrusion and mold growth can and will occur. 

4) Windows/Doors/Siding – Windows and doors should be properly caulked and sealed along exterior walls. All doors leading to the property’s exterior should be equipped with proper weather striping to keep moisture out. 

5) Drainage – All sources of moisture surrounding your property’s exterior should drain away from the property’s foundation. The perimeter soil should be sloped away from the foundation and exterior walls. 

6) Sprinklers – Your irrigation system should water your plants and flowers. Make sure that sprinkler spray patterns are properly set so that overspray on exterior walls, siding, windows and doors is not occurring.

7) Landscaping – Plant life, flowers, grass and ivy should be no closer than 18 inches from your exterior walls. Overgrowth along exterior walls, especially around doors, windows and utility penetrations can lead to moisture intrusion and subsequent mold growth.

8) Attic – NOTE: We will only enter and inspect attic spaces on property’s with pitched roofs, and when it safe to do so or applicable. We usually go into attic spaces when there is visible evidence of water damage or mold growth on the property’s ceiling areas.

9) Ventilation – Insure that your bath, laundry and kitchen exhaust fans are in proper working order. Your bath/kitchen/laundry fan ducts should vent outside and never terminate in the attic. Vent dryers to the outside of the home.

10) Kitchen/Bath – We inspect plumbing fixtures, paying particular attention to areas under sinks and toilets and around shower and tub enclosures. We inspect for stains, cracks, and mold on caulk or any other surface.

11) Basement/Crawlspace – We will inspect basements and crawlspaces when it safe to do so, and applicable. We usually go into crawlspaces or basements when there is a recent or active plumbing issue originating under the property.

*We use the Protimeter MMS 2 by General Electric which employs infrared technology, and measures surfaces for moisture content based on a wood moisture equivalency scale (WME). Moisture content assessment is the key to determining if mold growth has or is occurring. Mold growth will not occur without sufficient moisture within a given surface.