What Do Mold Inspections Cost In Maryland?

September 27, 2023
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Mold inspection costs in Maryland can range from $300 to $700 depending on your location, the size of your home, and the extent of testing needed. The average ranges around $650 for a typical single family home inspection.

In this article, we go over the ins and outs of the cost of mold inspection in Maryland.

Average Pricing for Mold Inspections in Maryland

Mold inspection services rarely charge a simple flat rate, as many factors impact the total pricing. However, we can break down average pricing estimates for different home types and locations:

For a single family home (2,000-3,000 sq ft) expect to pay $400-$600 for a basic mold inspection.
In the Baltimore metro area, costs for a basic inspection often range from $450 to $700. Higher population means higher demand.
In more rural parts of Maryland, costs could start as low as $300 for a basic visual inspection and sampling of a typical home.
For larger homes over 3,500 square feet, inspections typically cost $600-$800 depending on the size and number of rooms checked.
In commercial spaces like offices, retail stores, or warehouses, inspections average $0.05-$0.10 per square foot. A 10,000 square foot space could cost $500 to $1,000 or more for a proper mold check.

Elements of a Professional Mold Inspection

A thorough mold inspection will check for visible mold, take air and surface samples, determine moisture levels, and identify any conditions that could be causing mold growth. Here are the key components:

Visual Inspection

The inspector will tour your entire property looking for visible signs of mold like discoloration, fuzziness, or mushroom-like growths. They inspect in and behind walls, under sinks, in basements and crawl spaces, attics, and anywhere moisture could accumulate. The goal is to identify areas to target for sampling.

Air Sampling

Your inspector will use specialized equipment to take air samples throughout your home. Air is pumped through a cassette that traps mold spores and particles. The sample is then sent to a mycology lab for analysis under a microscope to identify mold present in the indoor air. Multiple samples are taken from different rooms.

Surface Sampling

In areas where visible mold appears present, the inspector will take surface samples. This involves lightly rubbing a sterile swab on the affected surface to collect a sample. Surface samples detect whether mold is actively growing.

Moisture Readings

Part of the inspection is looking for dampness or moisture intrusion issues. Inspectors use moisture meters to take readings on building materials like drywall and in humidity-prone areas. High moisture levels signal risks for mold.

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report. The best inspectors provide more than just sample results – they give guidance on any issues found, advice on fixing moisture problems, and instructions if remediation is required.

When Are Mold Inspections Recommended?

Mold inspections are a smart investment if you see visible mold or suspect excess moisture that could cause growth. It’s important to identify and address mold issues before they escalate into a major problem.

Here are common situations that call for booking a mold inspection:

After water damage from flooding, storms, plumbing leaks, roof leaks, etc. Fast inspection helps dry out the area properly.
Before buying a new home, especially if there are damp basements or signs the seller is hiding moisture issues.
During a home remodel where you open up walls and find questionable dark areas.
If you notice a musty odor in certain rooms or areas of the home.
When selling a home, an inspection offers peace of mind there are no hidden mold issues.
Annually in humid climates or seasonal homes prone to moisture buildup when not occupied.

Look out for condensation on windows, bubbling paint or wallpaper, wood rot, and warped floors as possible signs of excess moisture. Acting quickly keeps mold from taking hold and saves on expensive remediation later.

How to Choose the Best Mold Inspector

Not all home inspectors offer mold-specific inspections. When hiring a mold inspector, here are the top credentials to look for:

Training with organizations like the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC) or Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA).
Certifications like Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) or Indoor Environmental Consultant (IEC).
Background in structural drying, water/fire restoration, and indoor air quality.
Affiliation with respected inspector associations.
Use advanced methods like thermal imaging, 3D scanners, heavy metals testing, etc.
Also look for great client reviews and experience specifically handling residential mold inspections. Avoid inspectors who seem to rush the process or come in with a predetermined remediation plan before assessing your situation.

FAQs About Mold Inspections in Maryland

When Will I Get The Mold Inspection Results?

A full lab analysis of the air and surface samples takes 3 to 5 days typically. Some inspectors offer faster 24-48 hour rush processing for an extra fee.

What If My Rental Property Manager Won’t Allow A Mold Inspection?

In Maryland, renters have a legal right to request a mold assessment if they reasonably suspect mold exists. The property manager cannot unreasonably deny an inspection.

Will The Inspection Tell Me If The Mold Is a Toxic Black Mold?

Lab results will identify the exact mold species present. Toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) has a distinct appearance under the microscope. Leave health concerns to the professionals.

Get Started Today

Ready to ensure the safety and health of your home or business in Maryland? Get a comprehensive mold inspection today! Click here to request a quote and discover the affordable mold inspection cost in Maryland. Protect your property and loved ones from the dangers of mold – act now!

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Courtney Spellacy

15:03 15 Nov 23

I love reviews, but never leave them. I have to leave a review for my experience with Marcellis, his team, and the business. I had to get four quotes for my job - and while all were in the same ballpark - the professionalism, responsiveness, and quality of the process and work with First and Last Restoration was head and shoulders above the rest.

Bri Jones

19:30 01 Nov 23

I had a great experience with First & Last Restoration. Everyone is informative and professional. You can tell they know what they are talking about, the crews are very proud of their certifications and schooling when you talk to them about it.They were tidy, efficient and thorough with their work in my business. We had a bad mold problem in the basement that went undetected for months.I would 100% recommend anyone to this company.

Lisa Sterling

00:15 31 Oct 23

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Quincy , Mario and Charles were the technicians that performed the restoration work in my home after my sump pump backed up after a storm. They were informative, friendly and most importantly professional.They helped me to feel much better about the situation , I knew I was in good hands. I wish I could give First & Last and their employees 10 stars. The owner even checked in on the job, he was very smart and felt like he really cared about the job being done properly.

Mike Lowe

13:57 30 Oct 23

This team was amazing to work with. We Had a major flood in our home which then resulted in mold. They worked with my insurance company to document everything so it was covered.Quincy and Mario were very knowledgeable technicians and walked me through the whole process. I gave them full access to my unattended home and felt completely safe with them being there while we stayed in a hotel. 10/10 will recommend.

Michael Charles

13:21 21 Oct 23

Highly recommended for all home restoration needs. First and Last Restoration Service handled a significant sewer water damage repair at my brother-in-law's mom's house. Their team not only fixed the current issue but also spotted and resolved a previous damage. What sets them apart is their thorough approach—they don't just remove the damage, but also undertake the necessary repair and finishing work, ensuring the home is restored to pristine condition. Their responsiveness and timely communication were remarkable..

Kia Pearson

16:42 18 Jun 23

Very professional company. Went above and beyond to wrap up my items in plastic to make sure nothing got damaged. They even moved all my furniture and items out of the room they were working in. They did an amazing job removing all the sewage from my home. I highly recommend them!

Jenny Sataloff

03:48 01 Jun 23

Professional, friendly, efficient - they communicate well with the homeowners and the insurance company and provide prompt thorough service. A+

Deidra Stockton

22:41 31 May 23

Wow!! What a wonderful professional on time business. I am so pleased with their services I will be using them again in the near future.

Tameka Payton

02:49 13 May 23

Marcellis and his team are absolutely amazing. They were so helpful! They stepped in and spoke with the insurance agent on my behalf. My insurance adjuster from Liberty Mutual had experience working with Marcellis. She even acknowledged how great of a person he is, which says A LOT coming from an insurance adjuster!!!!Stellar performance, absolute professional.

Orion Burcham

17:57 22 Feb 23

Excellent service - Marcellis from Disinfect-It was knowledgeable, professional, and generous with his time.My wife and I just bought a new house, only to find a mold-like substance covering the walls of the attic. Our first home inspector (not a remediation expert) was sure it was mold, and charged us over $100 for a single tape test. The results of that test were vague, and he concluded by advising that we should “not use the attic.” - an unrealistic and unprofessional suggestion.Following this bad experience, we reached out to Disinfect-It Emergency Restoration for a proper mold inspection. And they delivered!Marcellis (the owner) brought his superior knowledge to bare. He arrived on time, and did a thorough, efficient examination. Not only did he run some initial air tests in the attic (leaving us with more information in one day than we got from the previous lab report), but he also told us that the substance may not actually be mold. He referred us to an industrial mold inspector, and even called him on the spot for an initial review of our attic by video.Since then, we’ve had the specialist come by, and we are waiting on the final (new) lab results. Thanks to Disinfect-It’s experience and professionalism, we may avoid paying for costly remediation that isn’t actually needed.We look forward to working with Marcellis and company again, should the need arise.Thank you, Disinfect-It!

Francine Rodney

20:01 07 Dec 22

I had to call Disinfect-it for water Damage, Clean up and Restoration in which a Respectful Responder named Marcellis Mosby answers the call and out ASAP.He was very easy to talk to, very understanding and sympathetic about our situation. He was willing to help us Restored the damages and take care of our problems.I will definitely call Disinfect-it again if God forbid I should have such unfortunate experience again. I'm Recommending Disinfect-it and the team headed by Marcellis Mosby to anyone who has find themselves in such unfortunate situation like I did.Marcellis Mosby to the RESCUE, U BET ON HIM....FRANCINE R in MD

Tamara Howard

02:04 26 Oct 22

Marcellis and his Disinfect-It team restored my basement after my hot water heater burst. From the first contact until the job was done, they were professional, on-time, knowledgeable, fast, and provided excellent customer service! The water damage from the water heater was much more extensive than I realized. They identified all of the affected areas (carpet, structure, and items), only removed the drywall, studs, and trim that were damaged, and ensured that everything was thoroughly dry before starting the rebuild. They completed the job much faster than I expected. The drywall and trim replacements were done so expertly, that I cannot tell where the old and new begin and end. I was so relieved and pleased. They bought the exact paint (color and brand) originally used on the affected walls for a perfect match. Marcellis also worked with my insurance company to ensure that the work was covered. I am so pleased with Disinfect-It and encourage you to hire them if you'd like your water damaged space to look like new!

Keith Savage

16:12 10 Sep 22

I cannot say enough amazing things about this company. I did not expect to be so pleasantly surprised by the service, professionalism, and excellence of a water remediation company. Mr. Mosby and his team from start to finish are well equipped to handle everything you need. I am a very stern customer and not easily impressed and I am highly impressed with this company. If I could give it 10 stars I would.

KARYES THOMAS

23:23 14 Jun 22

Dealing with water damage, company came highly recommended. The were very professional, on time and knowledgeable about the issue. They assist with dealing with insurance company which set my mind at ease. The crew came and move necessary items to effectively remove damaged walls and carpet. I will definitely use again if needed (hope I don’t need…lol). Thanks DISINFECT for making an otherwise difficult moment less impactful. Your expertise was a welcomed experience.