'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20outer%20ring%20--%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='80'%20fill='none'%20stroke='%23ffffff'%20stroke-width='8'%20opacity='0.25'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20needle%20-%20North%20(gold)%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M128%2056%20L144%20128%20L128%20116%20L112%20128%20Z'%20fill='url(%23accent)'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20needle%20-%20South%20(white)%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M128%20200%20L144%20128%20L128%20140%20L112%20128%20Z'%20fill='%23ffffff'%20opacity='0.85'/%3e%3c!--%20Center%20circle%20--%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='12'%20fill='url(%23accent)'/%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='6'%20fill='%230d4a4f'/%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
What Clearance Testing Means
Clearance testing is the final verification step after remediation. It may include visual inspection, moisture checks, and air or surface sampling to confirm the work was effective.
Who Should Perform It
- Prefer an independent inspector, not the remediation contractor
- Verify sampling methods and lab used
- Require written interpretation of results
What a Pass Looks Like
Visual and Moisture
- No visible dust or residue in the work area
- No moisture readings above baseline
- Materials dry to normal levels
Sampling Results
- Indoor air similar to outdoor baseline
- No water damage indicator dominance
- Surface samples within acceptable limits
No Federal Standards
There are no federal standards for acceptable mold levels indoors. Clearance focuses on verifying that moisture is corrected, visible contamination is removed, and air and surfaces look normal for the environment.
- Confirm moisture sources are fixed and materials are dry
- Use visual inspection and odor as primary signals
- Use sampling only when it supports the verification plan
Timing the Test
- 1
Allow drying to complete
Testing too early can show elevated counts.
- 2
Remove equipment and clean
Final cleaning should be done before testing.
- 3
Stabilize the environment
Run HVAC normally before sampling.