Testing the air for molds and other contaminants, as a first step, is not recommended in the CMHC Investigative Procedure. Laboratory tests give you limited information. Tests for a specific chemical contaminant can tell you if the contaminant is present. Tests for molds can tell you the genus (family) or species of molds that are detected. The significance of the results is subject to interpretation. Furthermore, the results do not tell you the sources and how to correct the problems.
A building-science-based investigation has proven effective in identifying IAQ problems and solutions. Taking remedial action is far more important than identifying individual contaminants.
(See our Key Pollutants page for details about contaminants.)
Shouldn't One Find Out If Toxic Molds Are Present?
When mold is found in a house, the solution is to clean it up and correct the source of moisture. Currently accepted guidelines emphasize fixing the problem rather than identifying the type of mold. (Check our MOLD page for more details.) However, specific situations may require mold testing. If the client wants testing done, or if an Investigation warrants, CanInspect will collect samples and submit test material to reputable, certified testing labs that maintain professional standards.