A06_Mold_Inspection_Report_7_24_2025_0002.pdf

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Attached to: CA-SAN PABLO BAY NWR-OFFICE MOLD REMEDIATION
Solicitation number: 140FC325Q0023
Issued by: Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service

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Written by GovTribe AI · Aug 4, 2025

This document is a comprehensive mold inspection report for a property located at 2100 Sears Pt Rd in Sonoma, California, conducted by Insight Environmental on July 24, 2025. The inspection revealed significant mold contamination throughout the building, categorizing the environment as a Condition 3 (actual growth), which requires extensive remediation. Key findings include visible mold growth around windows in multiple rooms (including the kitchen, Office 1, bathroom, and storage room), elevated marker spores indicating water damage, and historical moisture conditions conducive to mold proliferation.

The report provides detailed site-specific recommendations for remediation, including removing and replacing drywall in affected areas, chasing moisture and mold damage 3 feet past observed locations, and addressing crawlspace moisture issues. The recommended remediation process involves strict engineering controls, including establishing negative air pressure, using HEPA filtration, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and following industry guidelines from IICRC S520 and EPA standards. The inspector emphasized the importance of thoroughly drying substrates and ensuring all structural components are restored to a Condition 1 (clean and dry) environment before final clearance.

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Company Information Insight Environmental steve@insightebc.com www.envirovue.com

Published Report

Inspected By:

Steve Ramos, CA State License

#CAC-17-6062

Inspection report for the property at

2100 Sears Pt Rd Sonoma Ca

This report is prepared exclusively for Meg Marriott Inspected On: 07-24-2025

The Scope and Purpose of a Mold Inspection Limitations

The purpose of a mold inspection is to help identify mold damage to a structure by providing a professional opinion about the overall condition of areas of the structure which are suspected of harboring mold damage. A mold inspection is a limited visual inspection and may include air or surface sampling. It cannot eliminate the risk of mold damage being present and the methods and procedures, although thorough and industry standard best practice, will not identify hidden or latent defects. Some structures present more risks than others. We cannot control this, but we try to help educate you about what we don’t know during the inspection process. This is more difficult to convey in a report and one of many reasons why we recommend that you attend the inspection.

Health Concerns

Mold inspection is a crucial aspect of maintaining a safe and healthy indoor environment. Molds are microscopic organisms that thrive in damp conditions, breaking down organic materials such as wood, paper, and textiles. While mold is a natural part of the ecosystem, its presence indoors can lead to various health issues and structural damage.

Prolonged exposure to mold spores can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and even serious illnesses in susceptible individuals. Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, skin irritation, and eye or throat discomfort. In some cases, exposure to toxic molds like Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as "black mold") can result in severe neurological disorders or immune system suppression.

Structural Implications

Apart from health concerns, unchecked mold growth also compromises the integrity of building structures.

Mold infestations can weaken wooden beams and supports by breaking down cellulose fibers a process that could ultimately lead to costly repairs or even structural collapse. Conducting regular mold inspections is essential for safeguarding the well-being of inhabitants and preserving the longevity of buildings. By identifying potential threats early on through professional assessments like this one provided by Insight

Environmental, clients have the opportunity to address any issues promptly—ensuring a safe living or working environment for all occupants.

Inspection Process

Our mold inspection methodology involves a comprehensive, systematic approach to ensure accurate results and thorough coverage of the property. The following steps detail our process:

1. Visual Inspection: Our certified microbial consultant begins with a visual assessment of the entire building, including both interior and exterior spaces. This step allows us to identify potential areas of concern, such as visible mold growth, water damage, or poor ventilation.

2. Moisture Mapping: Using state-of-the-art moisture meters and infrared thermography cameras, we detect abnormalities in moisture levels within walls, ceilings, and floors. These tools enable us to pinpoint hidden sources of water intrusion that may contribute to mold growth.

3. Air Sampling: To assess indoor air quality and determine the presence of airborne mold spores, we collect air samples from various locations throughout the building using specialized equipment such as spore traps or microbial air samplers. These samples are then sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis.

4. Surface Sampling: In areas where visible mold or suspected growth is present, surface samples are collected using swabs or adhesive tape lifts. Similar to air samples, these specimens are also sent to a laboratory for further examination and identification of mold species.

5. Building Material Assessment: Our consultant evaluates the condition of materials that may be susceptible to mold colonization, such as wood framing members, drywall, insulation, carpeting, and HVAC components.

6. Documentation & Reporting: Throughout the inspection process, our consultant documents all findings with photographs and detailed notes. Upon completion of the laboratory analysis and review of gathered data, we compile a comprehensive report outlining our observations along with recommendations for remediation if necessary.

Insight Environmental

Steven Ramos CMC #: 1411011

245 Kentucky St, Ste A

Petaluma, CA 94952

(707) 775-7800

Best Wishes , Steve Ramos

CMC#1411011

Summary

Visible Mold Observed F-1 Findings - Visual Inspection Findings: Visible Mold Growth - Windows. At the time of inspection, the inspector observed mold growth on the surfaces around the windows that will require professional remediation services. All remediation efforts should be performed by properly certified personnel and from an organization that has a valid contractor's license with the State of

California. All mold damaged materials should be removed using methods recommended by the

IICRC s520 mold remediation standard using certified workers.

All of the window areas were impacted in the building with varying degrees of mold damage. In some cases the mold damage was due to suspected leaking of the window such as Office 1, bathroom, and the kitchen. In the other locations, it was less obvious if the resulting water damage and mold growth was related to leaking for excess condensation. Excess condensation is a contributing factor as the crawlspace ventilation is non-existent and the perimeter drainage is inadequate. As humidity collects in the crawlspace, it ultimately migrates to the occupied spaces and provides for environmental conditions conducive to condensation and mold growth.

Key Findings

• Elevated Marker Spores: Marker spores observed in the sample data combined with other factors outlined in this section suggest that the spores present in the sample data, which are not consistent with a Condition 1 Environment, are from an amplification source in the indoor environment. Marker spores when present are commonly associated with water damage or buildings that have been subjected to leaking, flooding, or other water intrusion. Marker spores inform the consultant and assist in arriving at an appropriate recommendation for remediation. Marker spore presence by itself does not justify a classification of Condition 2 or 3 unless they are significantly elevated above control sample data. The area is classified as a Condition 2 or 3.

Industry best practices generally require an area be restored to a Condition 1 Environment.

• Significant Visible Mold Contamination: At the time of the inspection, the inspector observed significant visible mold contamination on vulnerable substrates.

• Historical Information: Historical information about prior events that may be conducive to mold contamination (e.g. recent remediation activity, significant leaks, elevated humidity, or water intrusion) may be risk factors considered during this assessment if sufficient details are provided to the consultant prior to the assessment. For this inspection there was relevant historical information that informed the consultant and assisted in arriving at a conclusion for remediation.

F-2 Findings - Visual Inspection Findings: Mold Damage Kitchen, Office 1, Back Storage

Room, Bathroom. At the time of inspection, the inspector observed mold growth on surfaces that will require professional remediation services. All remediation efforts should be performed by properly certified personnel and from an organization that has a valid contractor's license with the

State of California. All mold damaged materials should be removed using methods recommended

Key Findings

Industry best practices generally require an area be restored to a Condition 1 Environment.

• Significant Visible Mold Contamination: At the time of the inspection, the inspector observed significant visible mold contamination on vulnerable substrates.

Mold Report General Information .....................................................................................................................................................................p. 7

Building Characteristics, Conditions and Limitations ......................................................................................................................................................... p. 7

Inspection and Sampling Methodology ...................................................................................................................................p. 7

Scope of Work .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. p. 7

Sampling Methodology ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... p. 7

Mold Inspection and Assessment.............................................................................................................................................................................................p. 8

Rating Key .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................p. 9

Findings........................................................................................................................................................................................ p. 10

Visual Inspection Findings .......................................................................................................................................................................................................p. 10

Visual Inspection Findings Crawlspace..................................................................................................................................................................................p. 17

Lab Analysis General Information...........................................................................................................................................................................................p. 18

Lab Analysis................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ p. 20

Findings Summary .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................p. 21

Recommendations .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... p. 23

Mold Remediation .....................................................................................................................................................................p. 24

General Remediation Guidelines ........................................................................................................................................................................................... p. 24

Engineering Controls................................................................................................................................................................................................................ p. 24

Industry Guidelines and Regulations.................................................................................................................................................................................... p. 25

Containment Procedure........................................................................................................................................................................................................... p. 26

Contents...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... p. 26

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)...................................................................................................................................................................................p. 27

Moisture in Substrates .............................................................................................................................................................................................................p. 27

Structural Remediation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... p. 28

General Disclaimers................................................................................................................................................................. p. 29

Confidentiality and Limitations.............................................................................................................................................................................................. p. 29

Health Effects............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. p. 29

Supplemental Documents ...................................................................................................................................................... p. 30

Lab Report Data ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ p. 30

General Information Building Characteristics, Conditions and Limitations

Building Type: Single Family Detached Commercial

Approximate Square Footage: 800 - 2000

Occupancy: Occupied

Weather during the inspection: Clear Dry

Inspection and Sampling Methodology Scope of Work

Purpose of Inspection: Building Related Contamination

Type of Damage Known: Visible Mold Damage

Suspected Source(s) of Moisture: Water Intrusion - Roof Water Intrusion - General building

Water Intrusion - Window

Sampling Performed: Air Samples Surface Samples None Not Applicable

Materials Impacted: Drywall

Building Foundation Type: Raised - Wood Subfloor

Information: This work was carried out in accordance with the agreement—either verbal or written—established with the client. Insight Environmental has utilized detailed information from initial discussions and subsequent communications to accurately identify and assess the areas likely to be affected, as specified by the client. The purpose(s) of the inspection are:

• Investigate for building related mold contamination

• Investigate occupant complaints or concerns

Sampling Methodology

Types of Samples Collected: Air Samples Surface Samples

Objective of Sampling: Identify/Confirm Building Related Contamination

Sampling Rationale: Historical Information Evidence of Water Intrusion Damage

Types of Air Media: Air O Cell Cassette

Types of Surface Media: Tape

Information: AIRBORNE MOLD SAMPLING

The objective of spore trap sampling is to capture a broad spectrum of fungal spores, both culturable and non-culturable, from the air. This method helps to identify potential fungal problems in indoor environments by quantifying the presence of spores. Spore trap samplers are effective in capturing most spores and particulate matter, allowing for the accurate characterization of environments where spores may not be viable or are difficult to culture. This is crucial as relying solely on culturable sampling techniques could overlook certain Indoor Air Quality

(IAQ) issues. Additionally, spore trap samplers can quantify other airborne particles such as pollen, fiberglass, and skin cells, although this is not a standard service provided by Insight Environmental.

Analysis of the samples can be completed within 24 to 72 hours.

Pump Calibration

Before sampling, the air pump is calibrated to a flow rate of 15 liters per minute using a rotameter supplied by the manufacturer.

Sample Collection

Air samples are collected using a calibrated pump connected to a cassette designed to trap particulates on an internal slide. The pump typically operates for 5 minutes at each sample location. At least one exterior sample is required, with additional samples preferred. Samples are taken from areas of concern and documented on a chain of custody form, which is then sent to an accredited lab for microscopic analysis.

Information: Surface samples were collected from suspect locations to determine settled spore activity and/or to confirm building related contamination on surfaces. Samples were collected using tape lifts by removing the tape from the sterile packing and applying it across the suspect area. The tape is then placed on the sterile slide and capped with the manufactures packing. All samples are recorded on the chain of custody and forwarded to an accredited lab for analysis.

Mold Inspection and Assessment

Assessment Methods: Methods

Information: Mold assessment

The Mold assessment has been performed by a trained and experienced inspector. The following assessment methods and testing protocol represent the most current industry standards and practices. Practices are, in part, derived from IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Mold

Remediation, US EPA, Cal OSHA. The Visual Inspection: the interior of the building was inspected for visual mold-like conditions that are readily observable. Interior surfaces were observed for moisture staining and damage that may be conducive to microbial growth.

Moisture inspection technologies often referred to as moisture meters, are utilized to assess specific suspect areas or conditions. They use electrical impedance to determine if excess moisture

Copyright © 2025 Insight Environmental. All rights reserved. Software by ScribeWare. 8 is present in building material. It is best utilized on drywall and wood products. It can be utilized on other materials using a comparative analysis. In general, the following guidelines are used in the moisture assessment:

• Moisture Readings: Less than 15% of moisture indicates normal moisture levels

• Elevated Moisture Reading: Above 15% moisture indicates an elevated condition which is conducive to mold growth.

An infrared survey was conducted on a limited basis to detect moisture in various substrates. The infrared device we used was specifically chosen for its ability to measure surface temperatures, which is crucial for identifying suspected moisture content in materials like drywall and wood subfloors.

In our analysis, we captured images with 64,000 temperature pixels for each frame, which were then color-coded on a monochrome scale for easy interpretation. The darker areas in these images typically indicate higher moisture levels, especially when they form non-geometric patterns like oblong or circular shapes. These are often found in consistent locations across a substrate, such as along drywall seams or near beams and joists.

If any relevant images were captured they will be documented in the inspection findings section of this report.

Rating Key

Interpretations: Rating Key

Information: Overview - ANSI/IICRC S520 represents a philosophical shift away from using the

“size” of visible mold growth to determine the remediation response. Instead, it establishes mold contamination definitions, (Conditions 1, 2, and 3) and guidance, which, when properly applied, can assist remediators and indoor environmental professionals (IEP) in determining a remediation response or confirm remediation success. For the purpose of this report and consistent with the standard, Conditions 1, 2, and 3 are defined for indoor environments relative to mold.

Condition 1 (Clean and Dry). A Condition 1 environment, building, or area is what most people would consider normal background conditions. There shouldn't be any recent water damage, significant leaking, flooding or water intrusion. Some normal background mold on surfaces in bathrooms and kitchen is typical. The air sample data should be statistically consistent with outdoor counts, and there should be no mold associated malodors.

According to industry guidelines published by ANSI/IICRC S520 "an indoor environment that may have settled spores, fungal fragments or traces of actual growth whose identity, location, and quantity are reflective of a normal fungal ecology for a similar indoor environment". A Condition 1 environment is what laypeople would consider a "normal" environment. There is always traces of mold in bathrooms, kitchens, crawlspaces, ect. in most environments and these conditions are generally not harmful to those that occupy or frequent those environments. Due to the nature of a person's individual biology a Condition 1 does not imply that an environment is safe for all persons. There are currently no available criteria of data to measure environmental variables that can conclude in a scientifically reproducible way to determine that an environment is "safe" for any percentage of the general population. Rating an environment a Condition 1 does not guarantee

Copyright © 2025 Insight Environmental. All rights reserved. Software by ScribeWare. 9 that a Condition 2 or 3 does not exist. A rating of Condition 1 is stating the absence of visual or sampling markers that would qualify the environment to be rated as a Condition 2 or Condition 3.

Condition 2 (Elevated moisture condition, settled spores or fungal fragments). A Condition 2 environment, building, or area will have some markers that suggest there could be mold present that requires remediation. Some examples could be:

• Recent Water Intrusion, Leaking, or Actively wet building materials

• Historical information that suggests there may mold present (i.e. washer overflows and it wasn't professionally remediated)

• Malodors

• Elevated Marker Spores in the sample data

• A small amount of visible mold damage and other associated observations

According to ANSI/IICRC S520 "an indoor environment which is primarily contaminated with settled spores or fungal fragments or elevated moisture in vulnerable substrates that were dispersed directly or indirectly from a Condition 3 area, and which may have traces of actual growth". Condition 2 environments generally require remediation. Remediation can be in the form of surface and air decontamination using surface disinfectants, HEPA vacuum techniques, or measure air filtration devices to remove particulate from the air space of the environment. Condition 2 environments may also include areas that contain elevated moisture conditions in substrates that are vulnerable to mold growth where the growth may not be readily visible and is suspected to be enclosed in an inaccessible area of the environment.

Condition 3 (actual growth).

A Condition 3 environment, building, or area is one that typically has:

• Significant visible mold damage

• Elevated moisture in building materials

• Recent significant water loss, flooding, leaking (plumbing, roof, windows, ect.)

• Elevated Spore Counts from air sample data in which marker spores known to colonize buildings are present

According to ANSI/IICRC S520 "an indoor environment contaminated with the presence of actual mold growth, associated spores, and fungal fragments. Actual growth includes growth that is active or dormant, visible or hidden". A Condition 3 environment generally has significant visual contamination, extensive moisture in substrates that are vulnerable to mold contamination. An environment may be rated a Condition 3 based on an obviously elevated spore condition especially if it includes supporting data of a present or historical water loss and accompanying elevated marker spore counts in the air data. A Condition 3 environment will generally require significant remediation which will likely include removal of materials in the environment that cannot be restored by drying or cleaning (porous and semi-porous materials like drywall and carpeting).

Findings Visual Inspection Findings

Overall Condition Rating for Visual Inspection: Relevant Findings

Visible Mold Observed: Observed

Moisture Conditions Present: Yes

Elevated Humidity: Not Present

Malodors: Mal-odor not observed

Information: This inspection includes a visual observation of the readily accessible surfaces for visible mold growth, elevated moisture conditions conducive to mold growth, and mold like odors which are consistent with mold growth. There is no standard for determining how much mold growth is significant or relevant. At times, it is an obvious concern and in others it is more subtle but still a concern. A range of factors as considered when making an observation and recommendation. Some of these considerations include: Present and active elevated moisture conditions, materials that are vulnerable to mold growth (i.e. drywall), historical information, occupant or owner observations (when available), the presence of mal-odors consistent with dampness or mold growth, and other factors that the consultant may deem relevant and significant.

• At the time of inspection, the inspector observed mold growth on surfaces that may require professional remediation services. All remediation efforts should be performed by properly certified personnel and from an organization that has a valid contractor's license with the State of California. The work should be performed in substantial compliance with methods recommended by the IICRC s520 mold remediation standard using certified workers.

Information: General Observations

• The roof is at or near the end of service life recommend roof inspection by qualified professional to determine if repair or replacement is warranted

• Downspouts discharge near the structure and are adding to moisture levels under the building and interior humidity recommend perimeter drainage to direct water from the roof away from the structure

• There is substandard ventilation for the crawlspace recommend adding ventilation around the perimeter that is consistent with up-to-date and modern building practices appropriate for this style of structure

• The windows are dual pain, metal framed. There is evidence of leakage and or heavy condensation around the windows. I recommend replacement.

• There are numerous interior cracks which exceed normal tolerance levels. It is unclear if these cracks are related to water intrusion or building movement. I recommend a review of the foundation structure by a qualified engineer.

Entry Area

I observed visible mold around the windows, cracking to the ceiling and walls water damage to the left upper corner wall by the window left of the front entry door

Office #1

I observed water stains and damage near the window on the east wall and significant cracking to the upper left corner of the north wall. The east wall visible water damage to the tile flooring, possibly wood destroying pest related to water intrusion. There is blue tape on the floor and east wall by a remediation contractor suggesting elevated moisture levels and a potential scope of work

Kitchen

I observed blue tape on the floor and east wall under the windows. I observed mold and water damage around the windows and windowsill. I observed cracking to the south, north, west, and east walls. I observe bulging at the tape scenes for the ceiling drywall

Storage mudroom

I observed visible damage, water damage, and mold growth above the door on the south wall I observed blue tape approximately 3 feet out from the rear exit door and the baseboards to the left and right into the walls left and right of the door, including above the door to the ceiling suggesting prior or history of water damage/water intrusion and elevated substrate

Office #2

I observed above tolerant levels of cracking to the ceiling. I observed mold growth for the two windows in this space.

Office #3

I observed cracking to the ceiling in the walls, mold growth, and water damage around the windows and windowsills. I did not observe blue tape in this room or water staining to the ceiling or exterior walls.

Bathroom

I observed blue tape on the exterior wall suggesting history of water intrusion. I observed mold and water damage around the metal framed window. This room has the attic access point.

Office #4

I observed above tolerant cracking to the ceiling and walls. I observed mold growth around the windows and windowsills. I observed nail pops below the south window with rust suggesting history of water intrusion.

Attic

• The attic inspection revealed insulation in the ceiling with knob and tube wiring in the insulation. This is considered a fire safety hazard. I recommend further inspection by a licensed electrical contractor.

• I observed water staining in multiple locations to the rafters, roof deck, etc.

• The heating ducks are located in this space. Information provided by staff indicated they were replaced in 2021.

• There are two gable vents for ventilation along with eave block venting

• There is fire suppression piping, located in the attic space

Information: General Photos

Conditions Conducive to Mold Growth:

Roof Condition. The roof is near or at the end of its useful life. There is evidence of leaks to the interior which have resulted in water damage and mold growth. I recommend removing and replacing the roof.

(F-1) Visible Mold Observed: Visible Mold Growth - Windows. At the time of inspection, the inspector observed mold growth on the surfaces around the windows that will require professional remediation services. All remediation efforts should be performed by properly certified personnel and from an organization that has a valid contractor's license with the State of

California. All mold damaged materials should be removed using methods recommended by the

IICRC s520 mold remediation standard using certified workers.

Key Findings

Industry best practices generally require an area be restored to a Condition 1 Environment.

• Significant Visible Mold Contamination: At the time of the inspection, the inspector observed significant visible mold contamination on vulnerable substrates.

(F-2) Visible Mold Observed: Mold Damage Kitchen, Office 1, Back Storage Room, Bathroom. At the time of inspection, the inspector observed mold growth on surfaces that will require professional remediation services. All remediation efforts should be performed by properly certified personnel and from an organization that has a valid contractor's license with the State of

California. All mold damaged materials should be removed using methods recommended by the

IICRC s520 mold remediation standard using certified workers.

Key Findings

Industry best practices generally require an area be restored to a Condition 1 Environment.

• Significant Visible Mold Contamination: At the time of the inspection, the inspector observed significant visible mold contamination on vulnerable substrates.

Visual Inspection Findings Crawlspace

Overall Condition Rating for Visual Inspection: Relevant Findings

• Mold Growth Observed. At the time of inspection, the inspector observed mold growth on surfaces that may require professional remediation services. All remediation efforts should be performed by properly certified personnel and from an organization that has a valid contractor's license with the State of California. The work should be

Copyright © 2025 Insight Environmental. All rights reserved. Software by ScribeWare. 17 performed in substantial compliance with methods recommended by the IICRC s520 mold remediation standard using certified workers.

• Historical Moisture Conditions. At the time of the inspection the consultant observed moisture conditions such as water staining or damage to vulnerable substrates. This condition is conducive to mold growth.

• At the time of inspection the consultant observed a musty, damp, or mold-like odor. Musty, damp, or mold-like odors are often associated with microbial growth and/ or dampness. A musty odor in isolation does not mean there is microbial growth with any level of certainty. All factors will be considered such as elevated moisture in the substrates, prior water intrusion or flooding, visible water damage, etc.

Lab Analysis General Information

Overview: Spore Trap Analysis

Sampling Methods: Air Surface

Air Volume and Time: 15 Litres per minute/ 5 Min

Remediation Phase: Investigation Pre Remediaiton

Type of Media: Air O Cell Cassette Tape Lift

Type of Analysis: Spore Trap Analysis - PCM

Seasonal Observations: Typical

Information: Air sample Results Overview. The air sample results tables are used to observe the mold spore counts by type, quantity, and location. Included in the results are control samples (typically outdoor) which can be used as a guide for what is normal background for that location, time of day, weather conditions, etc. Additional details are included in the report, if

These additional details are supplementary and primarily are used to parse whether or not a specific mold spore type observed is sourced from outdoor air or if it is more probable that the source is interior. It should be noted that the absence of water damage indicator spores in a sample cannot conclusively exclude the area sampled for mold damage. Other factors, such as visible water damage or staining, building history, current elevated moisture conditions, or odors that may be consistent with mold growth are included in the final analysis. It is best to consider the lab data in context of the overall inspection and evaluation rather than an isolated barometer.

Water Damage Indicator Types

Water damage type indicator mold spores are a subset of all mold spore types and are isolated from the general population as they have a higher correlation with water damage and may suggest that there may be water damage present in the area sampled. It may also suggest prior water damage from events in the history of the building. The analysis is heavily weighted on these presence, absence, and quantities of these types of spores due to their high correlation with water damage and resulting mold growth.

Indoor/Outdoor Types

The indoor/outdoor type category isolates mold spore types that can be observed in both indoor and outdoor air samples in varying quantities. In contrast with the water damage types these counts are still factored into the analysis but generally need to be in much higher quantities to be considered elevated. The other factors already stated including the presence of water damage indicator types, building history, water damage or physical presence of mold are relied upon to interpret the findings in this category.

Predominantly Outdoor Types

This category is isolated due to the fact that these types of mold are not currently known to colonize indoor environments. As such, they carry less weight in the overall analysis. These mold can appear in elevated quantities but are generally excluded from interior sources of mold growth.

They do provide assistance in understanding what the impact of outdoor air is on a specific location. For example, if a particular sample has a similar count for Basidiospores (not known to colonize interior environments) for both indoor and an outdoor sample it may suggest that the spores observed on the interior are entrained from an exterior source. Just because a sample has similar counts for outdoor types does not conclusively exclude the area sampled for interior mold sources. It may suggest, factoring in other relevant information that the results are inconclusive or likely from an outdoor source. This information is supplementary and supportive rather than diagnostic.

Fungal Particulates/Non Fungal Particulates

The fungal and non-fungal particulate counts are utilized in a similar fashion to the predominantly outdoor type category. It can assist in understanding if a particular count is from an interior location or more likely from an exterior source. This information is supplementary and supportive rather than diagnostic.

Additional Information

When reviewing mold reports there is a tendency to gravitate toward the data tables to understand if there is mold damage present or absent form a location which has been evaluated. The lab data is just one of several factors that are used to arrive at the recommendations in this report. There are times when the lab data is extremely elevated and the lab data is the primary driver of the recommendations. However, in most circumstances the recommendations are arrived at utilizing all relevant factors and the lab data is just one informational item included the overall analysis.

Information: SEASONAL AVERAGE NORMAL Outdoor mold spore counts vary with the seasons and with weather events. Data is available on average outdoor spore counts by mold spore type on a monthly basis. This data can be used to compare actual findings to see if the results are consistent. Again, we are attempting to source the spores observed as either likely from the indoors or likely from the outdoors. The applicability of this evaluation point is helpful when there are elevated counts indoor versus outdoor and no other corroborating observations from the site inspection and building history to suggest that an indoor mold amplification site exists. An example of this might arise when outdoor samples are collected during a rain event which usually suppresses outdoor levels which in turn can skew the indoor versus outdoor comparison. In these cases, we can use season averages to evaluate the indoor data more reliably. The outdoor counts were consistent with season averages.

Lab Analysis

Sampling Methods: Air Surface

Type of Media: Air O Cell Cassette Tape Lift

Air Volume and Time: 15 Litres per minute/ 5 Min

Type of Analysis: Spore Trap Analysis - PCM

Water Damage Indicator Types: Chaetomium Stachybotrys Ulocladium

Water Damage Indicator Types Analysis: See comment Above Threshold

Indoor/Outdoor Types: Alternaria-Like Aspergillus/Penicillium -Like

Aspergillus/Penicillium Strings Cladosporium

Indoor/Outdoor Type Analysis: See comment Above Threshold

Information: Water Damage Indicator Type Analysis

Upon reviewing the water damage indicator type spore counts for this sample location, I wanted to highlight the findings regarding these water damage indicator spores. Our analysis suggests that the marker spore counts are :

• elevated and inconsistent with outdoor levels, both in distribution and quantities.

The analysis and comments for water damage indicator types was supported by the following observations from the lab data:

• Indoor vs. Outdoor Spore Counts: The water damage indicator spore counts at this interior sample location were higher than or equal to outdoor levels, which is unusual for buildings with normal fungal ecology. This discrepancy suggests that the indoor air quality at the time of sampling was suspect and may indicate an indoor source for the spores.

• Elevated Count Water Damage Indicator Spores - Other Findings. The water damage indicator spore counts were elevated above normal background levels in the sample data for this location and there are other factors such as building history, elevated moisture conditions, water staining, water damage, or prior repairs. The

Copyright © 2025 Insight Environmental. All rights reserved. Software by ScribeWare. 20 presence of water damage indicator molds and other related factors increases the probability of building related mold damage in this sample location.

• Presence of Indicator Spores - Other Findings. The water damage indicator spore counts were present in the sample data and there are other factors such as building history, elevated moisture conditions, water staining, water damage, or prior repairs.

The presence of water damage indicator molds and other related factors increases the probability of building related mold damage in this sample location.

The lab data contained elevated or suspect counts of the following types of mold spores:

• Ulocladium

• Chaetomium

• Stachybotrys

Elevated Water Damage Indicator Types Present with known Present or Past Water Damage.

The data in this this sample location is consistent with an environment that has water damage or visible building related mold damage as evidenced by the presence of spores which are highly correlated with water damage and mold growth. This observation from the lab data is consistent with the physical observations for this location. An elevated water damage indicator spore count is an important factor in the evaluation. An elevated water damage indicator spore count is often but not conclusively correlated with some level of building related mold contamination. While marker spores can be a useful data set, it's important to approach the data with caution. Spore counts can fluctuate, and our sampling times are limited and the observation of the elevated marker spores alone is not conclusive. In the context of a comprehensive investigation, these findings are significant and warrant further investigation and consideration of other findings which may correlate with a finding suggesting building related mold contamination is likely present.

Findings Summary

Condition Level: Condition 3

Condition 3 Findings: Elevated Marker Spore Counts Significant Visible Mold

Prior Water Intrusion or Loss

Condition 3 Rating: Condition 3 Rating. After reviewing the physical inspection findings, the air and surface sample data, and relevant historical data this environment is rated a Condition

3. Condition 3 (actual growth). According to ANSI/IICRC S520 "an indoor environment contaminated with the presence of actual mold growth, associated spores, and fungal fragments. Actual growth includes growth that is active or dormant, visible or hidden". A Condition 3 environment generally has significant visual contamination, extensive moisture in substrates that are vulnerable to mold contamination. An environment may be rated a Condition 3 based on an obviously elevated spore condition especially if it includes supporting data of a present or historical water loss and accompanying elevated marker spore counts in the air data. A Condition 3 environment will generally require significant remediation which will likely include removal of materials in the environment that cannot be restored by drying or cleaning (porous and semi-porous materials like drywall and carpeting).

A systematic approach was employed to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the environment.

The tasks involved dividing the area into smaller sections and assessing each individually. This enabled us to identify any potential factors that could impact the overall condition rating. A variety of tools and equipment were utilized throughout the inspection process. These included, but were not limited to:

• Visual observation: Our team of trained inspectors conducted a thorough visual assessment, examining surfaces, structures, and systems for any signs of damage or contamination.

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File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated Aug 4, 2025.