How to Test for Black Mold Exposure

Black mold is a toxic fungi that produces volatile organic compounds, commonly known as VOCs, which can cause allergy symptoms, damage the central nervous system, or even prove to be fatal. Often releasing a musty odor, mold can inhabit any area that contains high levels of humidity or dampness. Mold testing kits are available for purchase and can determine whether you and your family have been exposed to the precarious black mold fungi. Alternatively, a professional inspector can evaluate whether mold is present.

Instructions

• 1

  Purchase a mold testing kit. Mold testing kits are available for purchase at your local department stores or online, and provide immediate results in as little as five minutes.

• 2

  A swab stick is used to test for black mold.

  If the kit provides a swab stick, glide it over the area you suspect contains mold spores. Then dip your swab stick into a special solution provided in your kit. After a five-minute wait, the results will tell you whether your home has been a host to black mold. Other mold testing kits may require numerous water samples, and may offer only minimal information regarding your home's mold status.

• 3

  A professional mold inspector can determine whether black mold is present.

  Enlist the help of a professional mold inspector If you're worried that a mold testing kit won't provide you with all the information you're seeking. A professional mold inspector will create a detailed evaluation of your property and test not only for the existence of black mold, but your humidity levels as well. If black mold is present, the mold professional can take all necessary steps to ensure your safety and the mold's proper removal. The cost for professional mold testing can range from $100 to $1,000, depending on what is found during the evaluation.