Homeowner Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mold testing and why is it important?
Quick Answer: Mold testing involves sampling the air and surfaces in your home or business to detect and identify mold species and concentration levels. It’s important because mold can cause serious health issues and property damage, often growing in hidden areas where you can’t see it.
Professional mold testing involves collecting air and surface samples from your property, which are analyzed in certified labs to identify mold species and concentration levels. This process detects hidden mold that visual inspections often miss, especially in Colorado homes where moisture from snow melt and temperature changes create ideal growing conditions in basements, crawl spaces, and behind walls. Mold testing is crucial because exposure can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and asthma, while untreated mold damages property structure and creates expensive remediation costs.
How long does mold testing take?
Quick Answer: Most mold testing inspections take 1-3 hours to complete, depending on your property size and the number of areas being tested.
The actual on-site mold testing process is efficient and minimally disruptive to your daily routine. For a typical Denver home (1,500-2,500 sq ft), our certified inspectors usually complete air and surface sampling within 1-2 hours. Larger properties or homes with multiple suspected problem areas may take up to 3 hours. The testing involves collecting air samples from several rooms, taking surface samples from areas of concern, and documenting moisture levels and visual findings. Once samples are collected, laboratory analysis takes 24-48 hours, with results delivered digitally along with detailed recommendations for any issues discovered.
When should I get mold testing done?
Quick Answer: Get mold testing if you notice musty odors, visible water damage, health symptoms like allergies or respiratory issues, or before buying/selling a property in Colorado.
Schedule mold testing immediately after water damage from leaks, floods, or Colorado’s heavy snow loads. Test if family members experience unexplained allergies, asthma flare-ups, or respiratory symptoms that improve when away from home. Pre-purchase testing is essential for Denver real estate transactions, especially for older homes or properties with basement moisture issues common in our climate.
How soon will I get my mold test results in Colorado?
Quick Answer: Laboratory results are typically available within 24-48 hours, with comprehensive reports delivered digitally the same day results are received.
Our certified Colorado labs prioritize quick turnaround for health and real estate urgency. Most air and surface samples are analyzed within 24-48 hours of collection. We deliver detailed reports digitally with specific mold species identification, concentration levels, and clear recommendations for any remediation needed.
How much does mold testing cost in Denver?
Quick Answer: Standard mold testing in Denver starts from $375 for most homes, with same-day inspections available and results within 24-48 hours.
Pricing depends on property size and testing scope. Our comprehensive testing includes a visual and infrared inspection, 2 tests, certified lab analysis, detailed reports, and consultation on results. Commercial properties and larger homes may require additional sampling for accurate assessment.
Do I need mold testing before buying a house in Denver?
Quick Answer: Yes, especially in Colorado where snow melt, basement moisture, and temperature swings create hidden mold risks that standard home inspections often miss.
Denver’s unique climate creates ideal mold conditions in basements, crawl spaces, and areas with poor ventilation. Many older Denver homes have foundation moisture issues or previous water damage that isn’t visible during standard inspections. Pre-purchase mold testing protects your investment and family health, often revealing problems that can be negotiated in the sale price.
Should I get mold testing after water damage in Colorado?
Quick Answer: Absolutely. Colorado’s dry climate can mask moisture problems, and mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure.
Even minor water damage from burst pipes, roof leaks, or basement flooding requires professional testing. Colorado’s temperature fluctuations and low humidity can hide ongoing moisture problems that create mold growth behind walls or under flooring. Testing confirms whether remediation is needed and prevents long-term health and structural issues.
When is the best time of year for mold testing in Denver?
Quick Answer: Spring and fall are optimal for mold testing in Denver, as snow melt and temperature changes reveal moisture problems that develop during winter months.
Spring testing (March-May) catches problems from winter snow accumulation and ice dam damage. Fall testing (September-November) identifies issues before winter weather traps moisture in your home. However, testing should be done immediately whenever you suspect problems, regardless of season, especially after Colorado’s heavy snow loads or summer storms.
What's the difference between air testing and surface testing for mold?
Quick Answer: Air testing measures mold spores floating in your indoor air, while surface testing identifies specific mold species growing on walls, floors, or other materials.
Air testing captures airborne spores to measure overall contamination levels compared to outdoor baseline readings. Surface testing takes samples directly from suspected mold growth to identify specific species and confirm active colonies. Most comprehensive mold assessments use both methods to provide complete analysis of your indoor air quality and identify contamination sources.
How quickly can I get mold test results in Colorado?
Quick Answer: Emergency and same-day testing is available, with rush lab processing delivering results within 24 hours for urgent situations.
For real estate transactions, health emergencies, or urgent situations, we offer expedited testing and lab analysis. Standard results arrive within 24-48 hours, but rush processing can deliver preliminary findings within 24 hours. All results include detailed species identification, concentration levels, and immediate action recommendations for your specific situation.
Pricing
Standard Inspection: $375
- Includes two tests — either two surface swabs or two air samples
- Air samples include one indoor and one outdoor control
- Includes a comprehensive visual and infrared inspection, lab fees, shipping, and a follow-up call to answer any questions about the results
Additional Testing:
- Additional test: $85 each
- Overnight results (when available): $25 per test
Travel Fees:
- May apply outside the standard service area
No Pressure, Just Answers:
- Every inspection starts with a conversation about your concerns
- We explain how mold works and why we test the way we do
- We only recommend what’s needed to get you clear, useful answers
Preferred Partners
At Skyline Property Services, we believe good work is worth sharing. Below are some of the local pros we actually trust — no kickbacks, no shady deals, just solid folks who’ve proven they know their stuff. Whether you need a roofer, HVAC tech, or a wizard with a wrench, these are the businesses we’d send to our own grandma’s house. (And we like our grandma.)
Jordan is a certified yoga instructor and holistic wellness practitioner who understands that true health starts with clean environments. Her clients focus on breathwork, mindfulness, and creating toxin-free spaces for optimal well-being. When they’re concerned about indoor air quality or respiratory health, Jordan refers them to us for professional mold testing.
Luke specializes in Colorado Springs real estate and understands that standard home inspections often miss hidden mold problems. When his buyers need comprehensive mold testing before closing, especially in older Colorado homes with basement moisture issues, he refers them directly to us.
Art specializes in Denver homeowner and commercial property insurance. When his clients face water damage claims or need coverage for mold remediation, he knows the importance of professional documentation. Art refers his policyholders to us for certified mold testing that insurance companies trust and accept.
In-Depth Mold Information
Mold Growth in Low Humidity: Denver Guide- Understanding why mold still grows in Colorado’s dry climate
Real Estate Mold Testing Guide- Buyer and seller considerations for property transactions
Air vs Surface Testing Methods- Choosing the right testing approach for your situation