Perform Initial Inspection for Mold Remediation
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Follow this how to guide for inspecting a mold loss prior to remediation.
Step 1: Confirm your appointment with the homeowner
Once you receive the file you will want to confirm the appointment with the homeowner.
Step 2: Arrive on site
Take a photo of the exterior of the home. This is required by most insurance carriers.
Step 3: Introduce yourself to the insured
Introduce yourself to the insured and ask some initial questions about the loss.
- How long has this been going on?
- Has there been any recent losses or renovations in the area?
- Have them show you the area of the microbial growth (KEY: do not say mold to the insured)
- Once you have established key facts from the insured, you will want to start your inspection
Step 4: Put on PPE for your protection
Depending on the location of the damage you may need PPE to protect yourself while you are inspecting the loss.
See Knowhow process below for Donning PPE:
Step 5: Take photos /video
You will need to have as many photos of the area as possible.
Take a walk through video of the home and the affected areas
You will want to make sure if there is any continuous ceilings/flooring you take good photos to show potential additional repairs that may need to be done post Mold Remediation
Make sure to take photos of any content items that are already damaged or of high value to the insured.
Your photos will be taken from the top down of the room making sure to get photos from each corner of the room.
Step 6: Inspect and sketch out the area
Now that you have the key information on the loss you will want to inspect and sketch the loss.
Key items to notate and measure:
- What is the COL (cause of loss)
- Is there a need to bring in a plumber or electrician
- depending on the COL what will have to be removed to access the area?
- Cabinets, countertops, plumbing, air handler, contents, etc.
- Length, weight, and high of the room. This is key are these measurements are going to be needed for writing the estimate for adding building containment and the hepa cleaning that will be needed.
- determine if the damage extends into other areas or is contained.
Step 7: Create your Tentative scope sheet
Now that you have the general room measurements you will want to put your tentative scope sheet together
This scope may change based on the Protocol written by the Industrial Hygienist
- what will need to be removed and the LF or sf of those items
- examples
- sf of flooring to be removed
- lf of baseboard being removed
- sf of drywall being removed
- sf of countertops being detached
- any plumbing items that are being detached
- sf of any underlayment that needs to be removed
- what needs to be removed to get this area to a clean state
- once these items have been removed how much work will be needed on the remaining framing
- how much equipment is needed
- dehumidifier, air scrubbers, hepa vacuum, ect.
- How much PPE will be needed for this loss
- How much content manipulation is needed
- How may filters are needed
- Make sure to count the air returns in the home incase the air ducts need to be taped off or cleaned as those items are easy to overlook.
Step 8: Take off and discard PPE, clean respirator
After completing mold remediation, it is crucial to properly remove and discard personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of mold spores.
Cleaning the respirator after use ensures it is sanitized and ready for future use.
Step 9: Set up for an Industrial Hygienist
Explain to the homeowner the function of an Industrial Hygienist and the importance of getting professional Pre and Post testing
Calling an Industrial Hygienist for mold is crucial to accurately identify the extent of the mold infestation and evaluate potential health risks. Industrial Hygienists have the expertise and equipment to properly assess and test for mold, determining the appropriate remediation steps that need to be taken to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
Industrial Hygienists play a crucial role in identifying and assessing mold-related risks in industrial settings.
By conducting thorough evaluations, they can help prevent exposure to harmful mold spores and toxins, safeguarding the health and well-being of workers.
Following the guidance and recommendations of an Industrial Hygienist can mitigate the impact of mold contamination, reduce liability, and ensure compliance with regulations, making it essential to prioritize their expertise in managing mold issues in industrial environments.
Step 10: Thank the insured for their time
Once you have all the information you need thank the insured for their time.
Let them know that you will be in contact to schedule for the Industrial Hygienist to come out.
Explain the timelines involved in getting the written report from them and the turnaround time to prepare the estimate
Depending on the program your company uses you can upload the photos before you leave the site or when you get back to the office.
Step 11: Estimate the loss once Protocol is Received
Based on the information you have from the inspection, you can prepare a preliminary estimate right away.
Then when the Protocol comes in, make the needed adjustments
Step 12: Submit to the insurance carrier for approval
Upload the estimate for the adjuster's approval.
