Columbia – October 14, 2026 -- Homeowners who suspect mold should usually start with an inspection rather than a lab test, according to mold remediation experts Ted and Donna Borys of Biotek Environmental in Columbia, South Carolina. Their advice appears in a HelloNation article that explains how the two services differ.
Inspections look for moisture and the conditions behind mold
Many property owners use the terms interchangeably, but the article says they serve different purposes. A mold inspection identifies signs of mold growth, moisture problems, and conditions that may support contamination. A trained professional looks for visible mold, water intrusion, elevated humidity, and hidden moisture.
The article stresses that mold growth is usually tied to a moisture source, and mold cannot continue growing without moisture. Inspections therefore often focus on finding plumbing leaks, roof leaks, condensation, and other water problems affecting building materials.
Testing collects samples to add detail
Mold testing means collecting samples from air, surfaces, or building materials. Those samples are analyzed to identify mold types, concentrations, or patterns.
In many cases, an inspection alone may provide enough information. If mold is visible and the moisture source is clear, the next step may be fixing the moisture problem and addressing affected materials, and testing may not be necessary.
Testing helps in specific situations
The article lists three cases where testing can add useful information:
- Indoor air quality is a concern.
- Contamination is suspected but not visible.
- Documentation is needed before or after remediation.
The Borys team says testing is often most useful when paired with a complete inspection.
Test results show only a snapshot in time
According to the article, test results reflect conditions at the moment samples are collected. Without inspection findings, they may not explain the full scope of a problem or identify the moisture source behind it.
Hidden moisture is another concern. Mold-related issues often develop inside wall cavities, crawl spaces, attics, or under flooring. A professional inspection may use moisture detection tools to locate moisture that testing alone may not reveal.
The article advises against assuming testing should always come first. Starting with an inspection documents moisture conditions and visible concerns, and testing can then be considered if it will add meaningful information.