What Happens If Mold Is Found During Clearance Testing?

When mold remediation is complete, clearance testing serves as a crucial final step to confirm the environment is safe and free of contamination. However, in some cases, mold is still detected during this stage. If mold is found during clearance testing, it signals that the initial cleanup efforts were either insufficient or that new growth has occurred. 

This discovery necessitates further action to protect the health of occupants and the integrity of the building.

Understanding Clearance Testing

Clearance testing is conducted by an independent inspector after mold remediation is completed. It typically involves:

• Visual inspections to confirm that all visible mold has been removed

• Moisture readings to ensure affected areas are dry

• Air and surface sampling to detect hidden spores

This testing is essential to determine whether the space can be safely reoccupied.

Why Mold May Still Be Present

There are several reasons mold might be found even after remediation:

• Incomplete removal of contaminated materials

• Moisture problems that haven’t been fully addressed

• Cross-contamination from untreated areas

• Inaccurate or superficial remediation practices

The presence of mold at this stage is not uncommon, especially in complex cases involving large infestations or difficult-to-access areas like HVAC systems or behind walls.

What Happens Next?

Additional Remediation Efforts

If mold is discovered during clearance testing, additional remediation will almost certainly be required. The scope of this work depends on:

• Type of mold present: Certain species, like Stachybotrys (black mold), require more aggressive cleanup.

• Level of contamination: A few spores in air samples might indicate minor issues, whereas high concentrations could signal widespread regrowth.

• Location of mold: Mold found behind walls, in attics, or ductwork can complicate the remediation process.

Steps Typically Taken

1. Reassessment by a mold professional to identify problem areas

2. Removal of remaining mold-contaminated materials
   

3. Further drying and dehumidification
   

4. Re-cleaning and HEPA vacuuming
   

5. Retesting to confirm success

Consequences of Ignoring Mold Found During Testing

Failing to address mold detected during clearance testing can lead to:

• Ongoing structural damage

• Health issues such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections

• Legal liability for landlords or property managers

• Additional long-term cleanup costs

This is why most remediation professionals and insurance companies insist on successful clearance results before closing a case.

How to Prevent Post-Remediation Mold Recurrence

To avoid repeated remediation cycles:

• Fix the source of moisture completely (e.g., leaky pipes or roof)

• Improve ventilation in humid areas like bathrooms and basements

• Use dehumidifiers where necessary

• Follow professional remediation standards like those from the IICRC

Final Thoughts

Finding mold during clearance testing can be frustrating, but it’s a critical part of ensuring a thorough and effective remediation process. It acts as a safeguard, highlighting that further work is needed before the space is truly safe. 

While it may delay re-occupancy, this extra step ultimately protects health, property, and peace of mind.