Why Mold Testing Should Be a Standard Part of Every Home Inspection
Mold isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a health hazard and a financial risk. Here’s why mold testing should be part of every home inspection in North Carolina and beyond.
The House Looked Perfect—Until It Wasn’t
Just a week after moving into their new home in Wilmington, NC, the Jacksons noticed a persistent musty odor. Their 7-year-old daughter developed a hacking cough. After a visit to the pediatrician and an environmental specialist, the diagnosis was clear: black mold behind the HVAC return. The repair and remediation? Over $18,000.
Their standard home inspection? Mold testing wasn’t included.
Mold in North Carolina Homes: A Hidden Risk
North Carolina’s warm, humid climate makes homes especially vulnerable to mold. Add in poor attic ventilation, leaky crawlspaces, and aging HVAC systems, and it’s the perfect recipe for spores to flourish undetected.
Why You Should Be Concerned
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Health Risks: Mold exposure can trigger asthma, allergic reactions, and serious respiratory problems, especially in children and the elderly. (CDC)
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Structural Damage: Mold weakens wood, drywall, and insulation—leading to costly structural repairs.
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Insurance Trouble: Many home insurance policies exclude mold damage unless caused by a covered peril.
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Lower Resale Value: A history of mold, even remediated, can reduce buyer interest and appraised value. (HUD.gov)
Mold Testing in Home Inspections: A Simple, Smart Add-On
Most buyers don’t realize: mold testing is not included in a standard home inspection. But it should be. Here’s why:
What Mold Testing Includes:
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Air sampling to detect airborne spores
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Surface testing of visible growth
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Moisture readings in walls and crawlspaces
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Infrared imaging to identify hidden damp areas
According to the EPA, identifying and controlling moisture is key to preventing mold problems. A professional mold test during your inspection can detect hidden issues before they become full-blown emergencies.
Expert Insight: Don’t Skip It
“We see it all the time—buyers waive mold testing and regret it later. It’s one of the most valuable add-ons in the home inspection process. I recommend it to all my clients.”
— Sarah W., Licensed Realtor, Fayetteville NC
At Focused Property Inspections, we offer comprehensive mold testing as part of our expanded inspection package. We’ve helped hundreds of families catch mold before it catches them.
Take Action Before You Sign
Adding a mold test to your home inspection costs a little more—but protects your health, your budget, and your peace of mind.
✅ Ask your inspector to include mold testing
✅ Make sure results come from a certified lab
✅ Add it to your home buyer checklist
Ready to Book?
Contact Focused Property Inspections today to schedule a home inspection with mold test. Whether you’re in Raleigh, Fayetteville, Wilmington, or anywhere in eastern North Carolina, we’ve got you covered.
Need a clean home and clear conscience? Make mold testing part of your inspection.
Learn more about mold testing at EPA.gov »
Explore mold facts from the CDC »