Mold Testing
Healthy Home tests for mold using lab-verified methods and deliver clear, actionable reports—so you know exactly what’s going on in your home and what to do next.
Mold is a complicated issue.
There’s limited federal guidance, new studies are emerging all the time, and the advice out there is often conflicting.
At Healthy Home, our mission is to give you clear, reliable answers about mold in your home. Our certified inspectors follow established protocols from the AIHA, CDC, and EPA, delivering fast, cost-effective testing you can trust. Mold exposure is a growing concern, but the information available online is often confusing or contradictory.
We created this guide to help you cut through that noise with straightforward guidance on when to test and how our certified team can support your family’s health.
The Dangers of Mold Exposure
Mold exposure isn’t just a nuisance. It’s a health issue, and for some families, it can be life-altering.
Mold illness can affect anyone, even those without allergies. We understand how overwhelming it can be to see your children sick, to feel exhausted in your own home, or to live with unexplained symptoms. For affected individuals, especially children, seniors, or those with allergies, asthma, or chronic illness, mold can trigger a cascade of symptoms:
- Persistent fatigue
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Sinus congestion and chronic coughing
- Skin rashes or irritation
- Worsening asthma or respiratory conditions
- Recurring infections
- Headaches or dizziness
These symptoms often worsen in the home environment and ease when away from it—a telltale sign that the indoor space may be the source. Even if symptoms don’t fit into a textbook mold allergy, that doesn’t mean they aren’t real or mold-related.
This is where testing becomes essential. It gives you objective data to validate what your body may already be telling you—and provides a path toward better decisions and better health.
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrom (CIRS)
For some people, mold exposure can trigger an even more complex immune reaction known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome. CIRS is a chronic, multi-system inflammatory illness triggered by prolonged exposure to biotoxins, which are most often mycotoxins produced by certain molds in water-damaged buildings. Unlike a simple mold allergy, it involves an abnormal immune reaction where the body can’t clear these toxins, leading to persistent inflammation across multiple organs.
While anyone can develop CIRS, it’s estimated that about 20–25% of people carry genetic markers that make them more vulnerable to accumulating these toxins and developing.
CIRS often manifests in multiple symptom clusters simultaneously—this is what makes the condition so confusing and frightening. Families frequently report:
- Unrelenting fatigue and “brain fog”
- Memory lapses, difficulty concentrating
- Joint or muscle pain, headaches
- Sinus issues, chronic congestion, or cough
- Gastrointestinal problems
It’s not unusual for adults and kids to feel dismissed because these symptoms overlap with other conditions like chronic fatigue, depression, or autoimmune disorders. But when several symptoms come together — and especially after mold exposure — CIRS becomes a vital diagnosis to consider.
Facing CIRS is emotional and overwhelming—especially when homes feel unsafe or symptoms seem to worsen without explanation. It’s hard to trust your own body when you’re seeing specialists but not getting answers. Testing and science-based protocols exist — and identifying CIRS early can dramatically improve outcomes. You deserve clarity, not confusion.
Did You Know?
CIRS isn’t limited to mold. Other indoor biotoxins—such as bacteria from water damage or toxins from blue-green algae—can also trigger the same immune response. That’s why accurate environmental testing is a critical first step in identifying the real source of illness.
Why Test for Mold?
In the Pacific Northwest, mold often grows before it’s ever seen. Our long rainy seasons and fluctuating temperatures create the perfect environment for mold to develop quietly behind walls, under flooring, or inside crawlspaces.
Mold testing identifies whether hidden mold is present in your home, what type it is, and how widespread the issue may be. Our inspectors collect targeted air or surface samples and send them to an independent, accredited laboratory for analysis.
Mold testing is especially important after water damage, when mold is visible, or when unexplained symptoms—such as fatigue, coughing, or chronic sinus issues—start to appear.
Common CAuses of Mold
Moisture is mold’s silent partner. Whether it comes from a sudden leak or slow buildup over time, water inside the home creates the perfect conditions for mold to grow—often without immediate signs.
Water can enter through internal sources like leaking pipes or external sources like rain seeping through a roof or siding. Once moisture settles into walls, ceilings, flooring, or insulation, it can linger unnoticed—especially in homes with poor ventilation or high humidity.
Being aware of these common moisture sources can help you take steps before small issues turn into larger problems:
- Flooding or storm runoff
- Roof leaks or aging shingles
- Sprinkler spray hitting siding
- Plumbing leaks behind walls or under sinks
- Sewer or sink overflows
- Damp basements or poorly sealed crawlspaces
- Missing or defective vapor barriers
- Steam from daily cooking or long showers
- Humidifiers used without ventilation
- Wet laundry hung to dry indoors
- Bathroom fans or dryers venting into attics
- General indoor humidity with poor air circulation
Even in a well-maintained home, the Pacific Northwest’s climate can tip the scales. That’s why understanding these risk factors is a critical step toward protecting your space—and your family’s health.
When Should You Test for Mold?
Mold is often hidden, but the signs are there if you know when to look. These are some of the most common and important moments to consider certified mold testing:
After Water Damage
Leaks, floods, or plumbing problems create ideal conditions for mold to take root—especially in porous materials like drywall, carpet, and insulation. Even when things appear dry on the surface, moisture can linger behind walls or beneath floors. Testing after any water-related incident helps identify hidden mold growth before it spreads or causes harm.
Before Real Estate Transactions
Potential home buyers can use professional inspection services to determine if a property listing has a mold issue.
Persistent Musty Odors
If your home smells musty, trust your nose. Mold is often detectable by scent before it’s visible. This is especially true in moisture-prone areas like basements, bathrooms, and crawlspaces. A lingering, earthy smell is one of the strongest signs that mold spores may be present in the air or building materials—even if you can’t see any growth yet.
Chronic Health Symptoms & CIRS
If you or someone in your family is dealing with unexplained fatigue, sinus congestion, coughing, or other chronic symptoms that ease up outside the home, mold may be playing a role. In more sensitive individuals, or in cases of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), even small amounts of mold can trigger ongoing illness. Testing gives you the data to explore potential environmental triggers with your healthcare provider.
Visible Mold
If you spot suspicious growth, testing confirms the type and severity so that it can be removed effectively and completely.
Before Real Estate Transactions
Potential home buyers can use professional inspection services to determine if a property listing has a mold issue.
Tenant Complaints
Landlords and renters both benefit from third-party testing when health or habitability concerns arise. Inspection and testing can support landlords in maintaining a safe and clean rental property.
Lead Testing Process
Our lead testing process is designed to deliver fast, clear, and accurate results. Here’s what to expect.
1. Discovery
We begin by asking about recent leaks, odors, visible mold, and health symptoms. These details help us understand the context and narrow in on potential problem areas. We also ask about the building’s history—what’s been repaired, replaced, or renovated. In addition, we may also ask about any attempts at prior cleanup. Even small “DIY” mold removals can leave behind spores or moisture, and it’s important we know about them.
2. Visual Inspection
After the interview, we conduct a full visual inspection of your home’s accessible areas with diagnostic tools such as thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, and humidity sensors. The goal isn’t just to find visible mold—but to identify conditions that support mold growth, especially hidden moisture.
3. Sampling & Laboratory Analysis
We collect samples using industry-approved methods:
- Air sampling compares indoor spore counts against an outdoor baseline.
- Surface sampling (swabs or tape lifts) confirms the type of mold present on materials.
All samples are sealed and sent under chain of custody to an AIHA-accredited lab for analysis, typically with results in 2–3 business days.
4. Report & Consultation
You’ll receive a clear, plain-language report with photos, lab results, and next-step recommendations. We explain spore types, concentrations, and whether remediation or moisture control is needed. If desired, we can review results with your contractor or restoration company to ensure everyone is aligned on the path forward.
Post-Remediation Verification (PRV) TEsting
PRV testing (also called clearance testing) follows the same process as our standard mold testing—inspection, sampling, accredited lab analysis, and a written report—but is performed after remediation is complete. The purpose is to confirm the work was successful, that no hidden mold remains, and that air quality has returned to safe levels.
It is always recommended that the same testing company conduct both pre-remediation and post-remediation verification. This ensures consistency in sampling methods, baseline comparisons, and interpretation of results—giving you clear, defensible documentation that the job was done right.
Why Choose Healthy Home
Fast Lab Results
Receive detailed, lab-certified reports in just 2–3 business days
Easy-to-Read Reports
Receive detailed, lab-certified reports in just 2–3 business days
Trusted Local Team
Serving Portland, Bend, and beyond with deep knowledge of Oregon homes
The right testing partner brings clarity and peace of mind. Here’s why so many Oregon families choose Healthy Home.
Certified Mold Specialists
Our inspectors are accredited through the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC) and follow protocols recognized by the AIHA, CDC, and EPA. That means you get testing done to the highest industry standards.
Fast Scheduling & Results
Most inspections can be scheduled within 2–3 business days, and results are typically delivered in 2–3 business days from our accredited lab partners.
Experts You Can Trust
Healthy Home focuses exclusively on testing. Because we don’t perform remediation, our recommendations are independent, unbiased, and built only around your safety and clarity. Our reports are written in plain language and we are always available to answer any questions about the results.
Oregon-Based Since 2008
With offices in Portland and Bend, our team understands the unique climate and housing stock in Oregon and Southwest Washington
Pricing & Scheduling
Upfront pricing. Fast scheduling. Local service you can trust in Portland, Bend, and beyond.
Pricing
Every mold inspection includes the site visit, accredited lab analysis, and a written report with findings and guidance. Pricing typically starts at $350 plus $25 per sample. For larger projects—such as whole-house inspections or homes with many areas of concern—we provide a flat quote, often around $1,000.
$350+ $25 per sample
Scheduling
We can usually book appointments within 2–3 business days. Rush services are available for urgent needs, such as real estate closings or health-related concerns.
2-3 days
Turnaround
Most reports are delivered within 2–3 business days of sampling. Faster turnaround can be arranged for an additional fee if needed.
5-7 days
Frequently asked questions
Don’t see your question? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you find the answer.
How do I know if we even need mold testing?
If your home has a musty smell, history of water damage, or if your family often feel sick at home but better elsewhere, it’s worth testing. Mold isn’t always visible, and testing helps identify hidden problems.
Can mold affect my family’s health?
Yes. Exposure can cause fatigue, sinus congestion, coughing, and asthma flares. Children, seniors, and people with allergies are especially vulnerable. To learn more visit our page onthe health risks surrounding mold.
Should I test for mold or have mold samples from my home tested?
If you suspect any mold in your home, whether through sight, smell, or a recent water-related incident, you should have an accredited team test your home. The purpose of testing is not just to know if you have mold, but how much, what type, and the best way to address it. Even a small or invisible amount of mold can be hazardous to your health and grow into a major issue. Don’t wait to test for mold, protect yourself as swiftly as possible.
Is mold testing necessary if it's already visible?
Even if you know you have mold, testing is still necessary — testing tells you what type of mold it is, whether it’s spreading, and if airborne spores are present. Once we know this information, we can take the appropriate steps to solving your problem correctly and completely.
How do I know what type of mold test I need?
Our inspector will guide you. Air testing detects hidden mold; surface samples confirm what’s growing on walls or materials.
How do I know what type of mold test I need?
Our inspector will guide you. Air testing detects hidden mold; surface samples confirm what’s growing on walls or materials.
Is the testing safe for kids and pets?
Yes. The process is non-invasive and safe. We simply collect air or surface samples—no chemicals, no demolition, no disruption to your daily life.
Can I use a mold testing kit?
Mold test kits are not recommended in any industry guidelines. Data results from a mold test kit are largely useless without performing the upfront investigational work to identify potential sources of growth.
Wills I be able to understand the report?
Absolutely. We provide a clear, plain-English report with photos and next steps. If you have questions, we’re always here to explain everything.
How long does it take to get results?
Standard turnaround is 2–3 business days. Rush testing is available for faster results.
