The answer is not as simple as the question because not every job is the same. There are some cases where we recommend testing and there are some that can be a waste of your money. Outlined below are some tips for how to know when to test.

1.WE SMELL A MUSTY SMELL WHEN WE ENTER AN AREA OR ROOM
The first step is to have a free inspection done by an experienced remediation company. If there is a musty smell there may be an unknown water source in the walls, ceiling or flooring. The remediation company can use their moisture detection tools to check for moisture and if necessary provide you with an estimate for remediation. If there is not any moisture and or visible mold the next step would be to hire a Certified Industrial Hygienist to take air samples and they maybe able to tell you if you have a hidden mold problem.

2.WE SEE MOLD, DO WE NEED TO FIND OUT WHAT KIND OF MOLD WE HAVE?
NO, testing for the type of mold does not change how the mold is removed so testing may be a waste of your money.

3.WE ARE HAVING REMEDIATION BEING DONE HOW DO WE KNOW IF THE MOLD IS GONE
Request that the containment areas be tested for mold by a Certified Industrial Hygienist.

4.WE ARE BUYING A HOUSE, HOW CAN WE KNOW IF THERE IS A MOLD PROBLEM?
Hire a remediation company that uses thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to inspect and provide a written report. The next, more expensive option is to have air testing done.