Mold Testing Often Costly  And Unnecessary

HARTFORD — The Office of the Governor and the Connecticut Departments of Public Health (DPH) and Consumer Protection want state homeowners and renters to be cautious when considering testing for mold in their homes.

“DPH has noted an alarming increase in the number of calls received from Connecticut residents who are considering or have already spent a significant amount of money on mold testing in their homes,” said DPH Commissioner J. Robert Galvin, MD, MPH. “Mold testing is costly, and often unnecessary.

“Mold is naturally present outdoors, and we track it inside our homes on clothing and shoes, and through open windows and doors,” Dr Galvin added. “However, mold should not grow actively inside of a home. The biggest cause of excess indoor mold is moisture. Taking away the source of moisture takes care of the majority of indoor mold growth issues.”

Moisture sources include leaks in roofs, window and door casings, pipes and plumbing fixtures, as well as poor drainage or cracked foundations.

“While some moisture problems inside homes can be easily fixed, if extensive areas of mold growth or complex moisture intrusion exist, professional help from a licensed general contractor may be required,” Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Edwin R. Rodriguez said. “Homeowners and renters should be wary of contractors offering any type of mold testing. Instead, contractors should focus on identifying where the moisture problems exist in or around the home and remediating any areas where visible mold growth or water damage has occurred.”

DCP licenses general building and home improvement contractors, but there is no specialty licensing or certification for mold testing or remediation in Connecticut. Homeowners are encouraged to contact DCP before hiring a building or home improvement contractor to ensure that the contractor is licensed and to check for any outstanding complaints against the contractor.

DPH has published a fact sheet addressing the issue of mold testing in indoor environments, including residential properties, which can be found on the DPH website at www.dph.state.ct.us/Publications/BRS/EOHA/ieq_testing.pdf. Further information may also be obtained by calling the DPH Environmental and Occupational Health Assessment Program at 860-509-7742.

Information about Connecticut licensed building or home improvement contractors can be obtained from the Department of Consumer Protection at 860-713-6110.