A step-by-step road map of what you can expect during this process.
Step 1: Determine levels of Contamination
MSQPCR/ERMI Testing (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) of the dust in the home to identify the levels and spore types of molds present. This step may include additional testing of the dust to determine if it is viable or non-viable (dead or alive) which will assist in determining the source of the mold. *If mold is found to be present in the samples, move on to Step 2.
Timeline: 7-10 business days for results
Step 2: Identify the areas of Concern
This can involve some or all of the different sampling protocols as below.
- Pathways Testing – Testing of the home for the pathways that unseen mold may be entering the home
- Mycometer and Tape Lift Sampling – Specific samples taken from specific locations in an area of visual concern
- On-site investigation by a RestCon Environmental, or other qualified consultant
- Air Testing
Timeline: Varies by sampling protocol
Step 3: Determine the overall plan for cleaning and or remediation
Depending on the results of the testing, a plan will be created covering the following processes. RestCon will work directly with these vendors, with your approval, to ensure they are educated on how to follow proper procedures and protocols when performing these duties. RestCon would prefer to provide qualified and experienced references upon request when available.
- Cleaning – Depending on the severity of the contamination, a cleaning plan may be created without moving into a remediation phase. This may be something the homeowner does on their own and/or hires a cleaning company to perform depending on sample results.
- Remediation – a qualified mold remediation company may need to be acquired to perform the remediation in all of the affected areas.
- HVAC Cleaning – a qualified HVAC company may need to be acquired to complete the cleaning of the entire HVAC system.
- Contents – a qualified contents restoration company may need to be acquired to clean all salvageable, soft good textiles.
Timeline: Varies
Step 4: Post Mold Remediation/Cleaning Verification Testing
This is to ensure that the remediation/cleaning is effective and can include any of the previous types of testing depending on what those previous results were and what work has been completed.
- Pathways Testing – Testing of the home for the pathways that unseen mold may be entering the home.
- Mycometer and Tape Lift Sampling – Specific samples taken from specific locations in an area of visual concern.
- On-site investigation by a RestCon, or other qualified consultant.
- Air Testing
Timeline: 1-3 days for results depending on the types of testing needed
Step 5: Final Cleaning Verification Testing
ERMI Testing – This testing should be done anywhere from 4-8 weeks after the Post Mold Remediation/Cleaning Verification Testing was completed.
Timeline: 7-10 business days for results
Considerations
The above is a general guideline of our process and may not apply in every situation. Although not all of these steps will be needed in every case, each step should be discussed with your consultant.
The goal is to confirm the presence of contamination, find the pathways and/or the source(s) of contamination, remediate/clean all of the areas of concern and finally confirm that this has been completed to everyone’s satisfaction.
