The main requirement for mold growth is the presence of moisture for over 48 hours. If the water content in building materials reaches 19% for two days mold growth and decay will begin.

Molds can cause extreme health problems including death.

Testing for mold is not a usual part of a home inspection.  It may be identified along with a recommendation for further testing.  Mold Inspectors provide sampling of suspected areas and air quality testing that samples the air you breath and identifies molds and other pollutants. They can offer other kinds of mold testing as appropriate for the situation.   

Remediation for toxic mold conditions can run into many thousands of dollars, into the 5-figure range, depending on extent, location and areas of contamination.

Mold References:

HUD Report: Controlling and Preventing Household Mold and Moisture Problems (PDF file)

Black Mold is not Toxic to Humans - An Industiral Hygienist Perspective (PDF file)

Mold: Guide for Real Estate Professionals, Home Buyers, Sellers and Owners (PDF file).  [MS Word format]
Protect Your Children’s Health Inside: Indoor Air Quality • Asthma & Allergies • Mold & Moisture • Carbon Monoxide Lead • Drinking Water • Hazardous Household Products • Pesticides • Home Safety

Suit: Mold, fungi at DIA (PDF file)

Leave water damage cleanup to professionals

Toxic Mold Newsletter and Web site

American Lung Association on Biological Pollutants

Proper Cleanup After Storms Can Minimize Water Damage

Fog Away Mold - New remediation product

Indoor Humidity Can Cause Problems

Leave water damage fix-up to the pros

Mold Issues - Useful Links (article from Realty Reality blog).

Source: Inspection Perfection Inc. www.inspection-perfection.com

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