Mold Testing and Inspection: Certified vs Licensed

Licensed Mold InspectorCurious of what it takes? Have you wondered what the difference is?

To become a certified mold tester or inspector one needs to take an examination after approximately an 8 to 10 hour study section over the computer. In most cases this is a non-proctored exam. There are no experience requirements and the day you acquire your basic equipment you can start practicing mold testing. In some cases, mold companies send out home inspectors to do their work that do not even have a mold inspection certificate. Companies can do this because in the Memphis area (Tennessee, Mississippi & Arkansas) Licensing is not required.

To become a licensed Mold Inspector and Testing person (assessor) you must pass a comprehensive list of requirements in addition to a very difficult state proctored examination. This exam requires months of studying and numerous reference books to purchase and review. You will submit to a thorough background check such as a felony check, pending court judgements and a federal fingerprint check. There are numerous education requirements including a two year associates degree or a bachelor’s degree in combination with experience requirements in the mold inspector or remediation field of one to four years, depending on your level of education. You must also have completed courses in water, mold, and respiratory protection. College courses will include a minimum of 30 semester hours of science, microbiology, architecture, engineering or industrial hygiene. One is also required to carry several millions of dollars in liability / errors and omission insurance. An assessor is also required to take a certain amount of CEU’s (continuing education units) per year. As a final step, you are required to pay the state for the right to call yourself a licensed mold assessor

Memphis Mold Inspector has gone the extra step to be able to say Stan Moser is a Licensed Mold Assessor as well as a Licensed Mold Remediator (non- practicing). This was done to show each client we are going the extra mile and assure they are getting the best possible mold inspection available in Memphis. The Remediator license was added in case a protocol for a mold remediation would be necessary after your test results are returned. A special section on protocol writing is included with the remediation education requirements. In conclusion, and although not required, Memphis Mold Inspector feels this is an educational level that will let you hire us with confidence.