Mold Inspection
A professional evaluation to determine whether mold is present, what type it is, and how severe the contamination is.
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid environments. It spreads through microscopic spores that travel through the air and can settle on surfaces where moisture is present. In buildings, mold can damage materials and cause health problems, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems.
Mold thrives in areas with high humidity, leaks, or poor ventilation. It grows on organic materials such as wood, drywall, fabric, and insulation.
Common Places Mold Is Found
- Bathrooms and kitchens (around sinks, tubs, tiles)
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Around windows and roofs with leaks
- Inside walls or ceilings after water damage
- HVAC systems and air ducts
Common Types of Indoor Mold
Aspergillus
Appearance
Green, yellow, or black
Typical Location
Walls, insulation, HVAC systems
Health Concerns
Respiratory irritation, allergic reactions
Cladosporium
Appearance
Black or olive-green
Typical Location
Wood, fabrics, carpets
Health Concerns
Asthma, sinus infections
Penicillium
Appearance
Blue or green
Typical Location
Water-damaged materials
Health Concerns
Allergies, lung inflammation
Stachybotrys chartarum (Black Mold)
Appearance
Dark green or black, slimy
Typical Location
Constantly damp areas
Health Concerns
Mycotoxin exposure, severe respiratory issues
Steps in a Mold Inspection
Visual Assessment
Inspectors look for visible mold, water damage, and moisture sources throughout the property.
- •Examination of walls, ceilings, and floors
- •Identification of water stains and damage
- •Assessment of ventilation systems
- •Documentation of affected areas
Moisture Measurement
Use of moisture meters and infrared cameras to detect hidden dampness and moisture sources.
- •Moisture meter readings on surfaces
- •Infrared thermal imaging
- •Detection of hidden moisture in walls
- •Identification of problem areas
Air and Surface Sampling
Collection of air or swab samples for laboratory analysis to identify mold species and concentration.
- •Air quality sampling
- •Surface swab collection
- •Laboratory analysis
- •Mold species identification
Report and Recommendations
The assessor provides a written report detailing findings, probable causes, and a remediation plan.
- •Comprehensive written report
- •Detailed findings documentation
- •Root cause analysis
- •Professional remediation recommendations
Mold Laws and Regulations in NYC
Local Law 55 of 2018 (Asthma-Free Housing Act)
- Requires landlords of multiple dwellings to prevent and remediate mold and indoor allergen hazards
- Applies to buildings with three or more apartments
- Landlords must inspect annually and correct moisture problems
- Mold remediation must be done by licensed contractors if affected area is 10+ square feet
NYC Administrative Code §27-2017.3
Classifies mold as a hazardous condition. HPD can issue violations requiring correction within a specific timeframe.
New York State Labor Law Article 32
- Requires mold assessment and remediation by state-licensed professionals
- Mold Assessor: Conducts inspection and testing
- Mold Remediator: Performs cleanup and removal
- These roles must be independent to avoid conflicts of interest
Summary
Mold is a moisture-driven fungus that can harm both building materials and human health. In NYC, Local Law 55 and State Labor Law Article 32 require landlords to prevent and safely remediate mold using licensed professionals. A mold inspection identifies the extent and cause of mold growth, ensuring that remediation is effective and compliant with city and state health standards.
Our certified mold inspectors use advanced testing methods to provide accurate assessments and actionable recommendations for your property.
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