Don't Hire a Mold Remediation Company Until You Read This
Many "free" or cheap mold tests are designed to sell you expensive remediation you may not need. Get the facts first.
Most mold companies test AND remediate. That creates a fundamental conflict of interest — they make more money the worse they say your problem is. We ONLY test. You get accurate lab results and a clear written protocol to shop multiple contractors. No upsell, no pressure.
8 Common Mold Testing Scams & Gimmicks to Avoid
These tactics are used by dishonest mold companies across Southeast Michigan. Knowing them in advance is your best protection.
"Free mold inspection" or "$99 testing special"
What they tell you
"We'll come out for free/low cost to check for mold."
The reality
The low price is a lead-in to sell $3k–$10k+ remediation they control. Results are often exaggerated to justify the job.
How to protect yourself
Insist on independent testing only — no remediation arm.
Using petri dish settle plates or "cheap air sampling"
What they tell you
"We'll set out dishes for a few days — easy and accurate."
The reality
These are unreliable for most homes; they grow whatever spores are floating, not active growth sources. Often used to "prove" a big problem.
How to protect yourself
Demand proper volumetric air sampling (Andersen or similar) plus surface swabs/tape lifts interpreted by a certified lab.
"Instant" or "on-the-spot" mold test results
What they tell you
"We can tell you right now if you have mold."
The reality
Real mold ID requires lab microscopy/culture (48–72+ hours). Instant kits are often just moisture meters or visual checks dressed up.
How to protect yourself
Only trust lab-confirmed results with chain-of-custody.
Pushing "dry fogging" or "mist" as a full solution
What they tell you
"Our fog kills mold spores in the air — no demolition needed."
The reality
Fogging is temporary; it doesn't remove embedded mold growth in materials. It's often sold as a cheap fix when real remediation is needed.
How to protect yourself
Get testing that finds the source, not just air particles.
Over-diagnosing "toxic black mold" everywhere
What they tell you
"You have dangerous stachybotrys — black mold!"
The reality
"Black mold" is a media scare term. Many dark molds are harmless; real toxicity is rare and dose-dependent. Used to panic homeowners into big jobs.
How to protect yourself
Focus on quantity plus genus/species from a real lab, not color names.
No written protocol or just "we'll handle everything"
What they tell you
"Don't worry, we'll take care of it all."
The reality
You lose leverage — no way to get competing bids or verify scope.
How to protect yourself
Demand a detailed, written remediation protocol you own.
Skipping visual inspection and moisture mapping
What they tell you
"We don't need to look everywhere — just trust the samples."
The reality
Mold needs water. Without finding the source (leaks, humidity), testing is incomplete and remediation fails.
How to protect yourself
Choose testers who use IR cameras, moisture meters, and thorough visual checks.
High-pressure sales after "finding" mold
What they tell you
"You need to act now or it'll spread!"
The reality
Mold grows slowly unless active water is present. Pressure tactics push expensive same-day decisions.
How to protect yourself
Take time, get the protocol in writing, shop bids.
Want a printable version to keep handy?
How We Put You Back in Control
At Lakepointe Inspections, we believe you deserve honest answers — not a sales pitch.
Testing Only
No remediation sales or conflicts of interest. We have no financial incentive to exaggerate your results.
Full Lab Analysis
Air, surface, and bulk sampling with certified lab reports. Real science, not guesswork.
Written Protocol
Detailed remediation protocol you own and can give to any contractor for competitive bids.
Expert Interpretation
We help you understand what's real and what's not — so you can make informed decisions.
Local Expertise
Serving Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties. We know Southeast Michigan homes.
Get Honest Answers Today
(586) 330-0100Download the 8 Red Flags Checklist
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Lakepointe Inspections
Independent · Lab-Accurate · No Conflicts