A mold inspection costs $200 to $350 on average depending on whether it's visual only or if samples are being taken. Prices can double depending on how many samples the inspector collects for testing.

Mold removal costs $1,500 to $3,000 for the average project or $15 to $30 per square foot. These fees only apply for cleaning and removing mold-damaged objects, excluding plumbing repairs to stop leaks.

Mold inspections are worth it for:

• Collecting the report necessary to file an insurance claim.
• Detecting mold in areas you can't easily see, such as inside air ducts.
• Preventing many mold-related health problems like allergic reactions, skin or eye inflammation, sinus congestion, headaches, and respiratory trouble.

A mold inspection includes a detailed report after the specialist has:

• Visually looked at all areas in the home that are prone to mold growth
• Assessed all moisture sources to check for leaks that cause mold
• Taken samples for a lab test
• Compared the indoor-air quality to the outdoor-air quality

A mold inspection takes 2 to 5 hours. In cases where the inspector takes a sample and sends it to a lab for an assessment, you will have to wait a few days for the lab results.

Various signs of mold in your house include:

• Rotting smells of decay and mildew
• Growing gray, black, or dark green stains on the ceiling or walls
• Damp areas with peeling paint around the stains
• Sinus problems worsening
• Damaged areas around pipe leaks

Most homeowners insurance companies don't cover mold removal. Rare exceptions include if it's part of plumbing or flood damages that you have coverage for. If the mold came because of neglecting property maintenance, then insurance companies will refuse to pay for mold removal.

Call a mold remediation professional, home inspector, or environmental testing consultant to get thorough mold testing in your inspection. Before hiring a mold inspector:

• Ask if they have training from the Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), OSHA, or EPA-affiliated organizations.
• Compare at least 3 in-person estimates.
• Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Choose licensed and insured businesses with at least 5 years of experience.
• Get copies of an itemized bid and contract before the inspection begins.
• Avoid choosing the lowest quote that typically indicates low-quality standards.
• Never give the final payment until after they finish the inspection and give you the report.

• How long have you been inspecting homes for mold?
• Can I see your list of references?
• What precautions should I take to stop mold spores from spreading?
• How should I prepare my home for the mold inspection?
• Which methods do you recommend for treatment and why?
• Will I need additional home repairs to prevent mold from coming back?
• Has the mold spread into my air ducts, and if so, can you recommend a duct cleaner?
• What other costs should I expect beyond the inspection fee?
• How long will your assessment take?