Asbestos and Mold Inspection for Irvine, CA

A thorough mold inspection or assessment is essential for identifying hidden mold growth and moisture issues, which could compromise the health and safety of your property. Often, water intrusion or moisture problems are concealed from view and require specialized equipment to detect. At Condol’s Environmental Services (CES), we provide a meticulous visual inspection of your property to identify conditions that may be promoting microbial growth. Our certified inspectors check all walls for concealed moisture, take temperature and humidity readings throughout the space, and pay close attention to areas with plumbing—such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms—as well as inspect the HVAC system (air handler and ductwork) for visible mold presence. This thorough inspection helps us pinpoint potential issues and recommend effective next steps for remediation.

Our Complete Mold Inspection Process Includes:

• In-Depth Visual Property Inspection: We conduct a full walkthrough of the property to identify visible signs of mold and moisture.
• Certified Mold Inspectors: All inspections are performed by our highly trained, certified mold inspection professionals.
• Inspection of Common Mold-Prone Areas: We target areas with higher mold growth risk, ensuring no spot is overlooked.
• Thermal Imaging Infrared Scan: Advanced infrared technology helps us detect temperature variations that may indicate hidden moisture.
• Radio-Wave Moisture Detection: We use non-invasive radio-wave moisture meters to locate potential water intrusion sites.
• Attic Assessment: When accessible, we check the attic for signs of water damage or mold growth.
• HVAC System Evaluation: We inspect the blower fan, air handler, coils, and accessible ductwork to ensure your system isn’t harboring mold.
• Documented Problem Areas: Digital photos are taken of any problem areas for reference.
• Recommendations for Mold Testing: Based on our findings, we advise on whether mold testing is necessary for a more comprehensive analysis.
• Digital Mold Assessment Report: A detailed digital report is provided, documenting all identified issues.
• Customized Mold Remediation Protocol: For cases requiring remediation, we can prepare a tailored remediation protocol to address the specific needs of your project.

Schedule Your Mold Inspection with CES

Protect your property and health by detecting mold issues early. Contact CES today at 909-994-1893 to schedule a comprehensive mold inspection and let our experts help you maintain a safe, healthy environment.

If you’ve experienced water damage, our water damage assessment service will evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend necessary remediation steps. Our team is trained to detect hidden moisture issues, preventing long-term damage and costly repairs to your property.

What is Post-Remediation Verification?

At CES, we provide post-remediation verification (PRV) inspections and testing to ensure mold remediation was effective and that your space is safe to occupy. Often referred to as “clearance testing,” PRV is conducted by our certified inspectors to confirm that the remediation process adhered to the scope-of-work (remediation protocol) and that the area has returned to a healthy environment. According to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), this is referred to as achieving a "Condition 1 status"—indicating a normal fungal ecology.

For accuracy and objectivity, post-remediation verification should be performed by a third-party specialist, not by the remediation contractor. CES offers this independent service directly to homeowners, business owners, or via referral from remediation contractors.

How Do You Know Remediation is Complete?

Following the ANSI/IICRC S520 Professional Guide for Mold Remediation, CES ensures that your environment meets the standards for a successful remediation by confirming a Condition 1 status. Our PRV evaluations include these steps:

Step 1: A thorough visual inspection for any remaining mold or moisture issues.

Step 2: Moisture readings in multiple locations within the remediated area to verify all building materials have dried to acceptable levels.

Step 3: Thermal imaging of walls, ceilings, and floors to detect hidden moisture concerns.

Step 4: A sensory inspection to ensure the area is free of odors, signaling a clean environment.

Step 5: Collection of air and, if needed, surface samples to confirm the space is clear of mold on a microscopic level.

Step 6: All samples are sent to an AIHA-approved laboratory for analysis. Results are typically available the next day, with same-day rush options available for an additional fee. Indoor air samples should qualitatively and quantitatively match outdoor air, with surface samples showing minimal spore presence and no toxic or pathogenic molds.

Step 7: A detailed report of findings and recommendations is issued. If all criteria are met, reconstruction or re-occupancy may begin.

Both adults and children can be allergic to several different types of plants, insects, animals, and other allergy causing materials.  Many allergic agents cannot be easily avoided. However, just imagine if you are allergic to things in your home or office that are simple to detect and are avoidable?

• Our company can perform a variety of allergen tests
• The most common test is the MARIA (Multiplex Array for Indoor Allergens) a.k.a. Allergen Screen
• This powerful and informative test can detect if problematic levels of four troublesome, invisible allergens are present in your home
• If allergen levels are elevated, we will provide you with detailed information on how to properly clean your home and rid yourself of these elevated allergen levels

Our Allergen Screen service is designed to test your home or office for at least four important allergens:

• Dog
• Cat
• Dust Mite
• Cockroach

Even if you don’t see evidence your home or office may have elevated levels of these allergens.

Bacteria Testing Services for Sewage Leaks, Floods, and Contaminated Water

At CES, we offer comprehensive bacteria testing services to address contamination from sewage leaks, floodwaters, and gray or black water incidents. These situations can introduce harmful bacteria and pathogens into your property, posing serious health risks to occupants and potential structural damage to your building. Our specialized testing services are designed to detect bacterial presence, assess contamination levels, and guide you in taking the necessary remediation steps.

Our Bacteria Testing Process

• Experienced Environmental Specialists: Led by Davie Condol, a certified environmental inspector with extensive experience in health sciences and industrial hygiene, CES provides expert assessment and testing for bacteria and other microbial threats resulting from water contamination.
• Targeted Bacteria Testing: Our process includes surface and air sampling for common bacteria associated with sewage and floodwater contamination, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and other pathogens typically present in gray and black water. We also identify harmful microbes that may linger after a flood or sewage incident.
• Thorough Assessment and Reporting: CES inspectors conduct a full evaluation of affected areas, collecting samples from surfaces, standing water, and air. Our detailed report highlights contamination sources and outlines remediation recommendations to help you restore a safe environment.
• Swift, Reliable Laboratory Analysis: Samples are sent to AIHA-approved laboratories for precise analysis, with next-day results typically available. For urgent cases, rush testing options are offered to provide rapid insights and expedite your remediation process.

Why CES for Water Contamination Bacteria Testing?

• Comprehensive Testing for Safety: Whether it’s gray water from appliances or black water from sewage, our services are designed to protect your health and property. We address the unique microbial challenges each contamination type presents and tailor our approach to ensure accurate results and actionable insights.
• Affordable, Professional Service: CES is committed to providing cost-effective environmental testing services to Yorba Linda and surrounding areas. We make bacterial testing accessible to homeowners and businesses concerned about the safety of their environments after water contamination incidents.

Safeguard Your Property Today

If your property has been impacted by sewage leaks, floodwaters, or gray/black water contamination, contact CES at 909-994-1893 for professional bacteria testing. Our services help ensure a safe and sanitary environment, giving you peace of mind in the aftermath of water damage.

Lead Based Paint Testing

CES assists concerned homeowners in determining whether lead-based paint is present in their homes prior to renovation or construction activities that may disturb suspected lead-based paint. To reduce the cost of paint testing, CES utilizes an X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrum Analyzer. After testing, CES provides a comprehensive report that includes the following: test results, color, substrate, and the location of each paint sample tested.

Lead Hazard Risk Assessment

Condol’s Environmental Services will provide a depth evaluation designed to identify potential lead hazards in homes, buildings, or other properties, particularly those built before 1978 when lead-based paint was commonly used. The risk assessment involves both testing for the presence of lead and evaluating the condition of materials that may contain lead.

Key Components of a Lead Hazard Risk Assessment:

1. Visual Inspection: The assessor visually examines the property to identify deteriorating paint, dust, soil, and other conditions that could indicate potential lead exposure risks.
2. Sampling and Testing:
   • Paint: The assessor tests surfaces (walls, windows, doors, etc.) that may contain lead-based paint, often using methods like X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) or laboratory testing.
   • Dust: Dust samples are taken from floors, windowsills, and other surfaces to check for lead contamination, which can pose a health risk if inhaled or ingested.
   • Soil: The assessor may also test the soil around the property, as exterior lead-based paint can contaminate the ground over time.
3. Assessment of Potential Exposure: The assessor evaluates where and how lead exposure could occur, such as areas with deteriorating paint or high levels of lead dust. This includes determining whether children or vulnerable populations live in or frequent the property.
4. Comprehensive Report: After the assessment, a detailed report is provided. It includes the following:
   • The locations of lead hazards
   • The condition of lead-containing materials
   • The levels of lead in paint, dust, and soil
   • Recommendations for addressing the identified lead hazards, which may include remediation, stabilization of deteriorating paint, or soil treatment.

Why a Lead Hazard Risk Assessment is Important:

• Health Protection: Lead exposure can cause serious health problems, especially in young children, including developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behavioral issues. It’s also a risk for pregnant women and adults, potentially leading to high blood pressure, kidney damage, and other health issues.
• Compliance with Regulations: Property owners may be required to perform a risk assessment under certain circumstances, such as selling or renting out older properties, especially where children are present.
• Preventative Measure: It’s a proactive way to identify and address lead hazards before renovation, construction, or other activities that may disturb lead-containing materials.

In summary, a Lead Hazard Risk Assessment helps identify lead exposure risks and provides a plan for making the property safer, particularly in older homes and buildings.

At Condol’s Environmental Services, we offer comprehensive testing for asbestos-containing building materials in both residential and commercial properties.

When properly maintained, most asbestos-containing materials do not typically release asbestos dust. However, problems can arise when the materials are disturbed, become old, or are damaged without the appropriate precautions.

Unsure if your home or business contains asbestos? There’s only one way to find out: have your property inspected by Condol’s Environmental Services. Our inspection will determine whether asbestos is present, its location, whether it has been properly maintained, and if there are issues, we will provide guidance on how to address them. We’ll also offer preventive steps to help you avoid future problems.

If you already know your property contains asbestos, Condol’s Environmental Services can assist with asbestos management, from inspection to final clearance air sampling.

Our services include:

• Certified Asbestos Inspections
• Pre-demolition air quality management district asbestos compliance consultation
• Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) management plan development and implementation
• Air sampling and occupational air exposure monitoring
• Asbestos removal planning and contractor oversight

Condol’s Environmental Services offers particulate counting to help determine the levels of microscopic debris in the air. Depending on the size of the actual particles, they will either be inhaled deep down into the recesses of someone’s lungs or caught in the upper respiratory tract wreaking havoc there.

Why Measure Particulate Matter (PM)?
PM affects more people than any other pollutant. It consists of a complex mixture of solid and liquid particles of organic and inorganic substances suspended in the air. The particles are often identified according to their aerodynamic diameter, as either PM10 (particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 µm) or PM2.5 (aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 µm). The latter are more dangerous since, when inhaled, they may reach the peripheral regions of the bronchioles, and interfere with gas exchange inside the lungs.

Comparing indoor particle counts or particle mass concentration to outdoor counts/concentration provides information regarding the effectiveness of filtration, as well as for the potential that there are indoor sources contributing to airborne particulate matter. Many IAQ investigators have developed experience with elevated particle counts in specific particle size ranges to provide additional clues towards determining the potential sources of these particles. For example, tobacco smoke is known to be in the .01 to 1.0 micron size range, and pollens are typically >10 microns. Here is a simple chart to show common sizing of various particulate:

It is unlikely that one standard or guideline will lead to complete protection to the health effects of particulate matter. Particulates less than 10 µm diameter are the most dangerous because are inhalable and can get deep in to your lungs and even your bloodstream. People that already have heart or lung diseases, children and the elderly are the ones usually affected the most. Due to this, some of the health effects are:

• Increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing, or difficulty breathing; i.e.
  • decreased lung capacity
  • aggravated asthma
  • development of chronic bronchitis
  • irregular heart beat
  • non-fatal heart attacks
  • premature death of people with heart or lung diseases

Establishing a baseline of particulate data to compare to when complaints arise, or when construction is in progress or after changes have been made to an occupied space can provide valuable information to a Facility Manager, Building Owner or IAQ investigator.

In some cases, tracking increasing particulate levels may be used to “bloodhound” a source of airborne particulate. Elevated particulate, in the absence of a known source, may also indicate justification for air sampling, to be sent out for detailed laboratory analysis of the chemical composition of the particles.

What are Typical Sources of Particulate Matter?
Particulate matter is typically brought in from outdoor dust, pollen, smoke, smog and other outdoor sources. Indoor sources may include copier machines, printers, paper dust, environmental tobacco smoke, carpet fibers, upholstery, skin cells, pet dander, dust mite allergens and poorly ventilated combustion processes (fireplaces, kitchen cooking areas, boilers, furnaces, gas heaters, wood stoves, etc).

From outdoor sources; respirable particles that are 2.5-10 µm, and course, inhalable, suspended particles that are 10 -25 µm+, are found near roadways and dusty industries. Fine particles, those that are 2.5 µm and smaller, are usually the result of smoke and haze (forest fires, gases from power plants, industries, and motor vehicles).

Mold spores and fragments are microscopic (2-25 µm) and are naturally present in both indoor and outdoor air. Molds reproduce by means of spores. Some molds have spores that are easily disturbed and waft into the air and settle repeatedly with each disturbance. Other molds have sticky spores that will cling to surfaces and are dislodged by brushing against them or by other direct contact. If the particulate levels are elevated in this mold range, mold sampling can be performed to help determine what type and level of mold is present within the occupied spaces.

Condol's Environmental Services is transforming the industry by offering Water Damage Restoration Management Services. We assist homeowners and property managers in navigating the water damage restoration process. CES advocates on your behalf and helps expedite the drying process at your property, reducing secondary damages by closely monitoring the performance of your assigned water damage restoration company.

As a trusted provider of water quality solutions, we specialize in helping child care facilities across California meet the requirements of Assembly Bill 2370 (AB 2370), ensuring safe and lead-free drinking water for young children.

Our Services Include:

1. Comprehensive Lead Testing:
   • We provide thorough water testing for lead in all drinking and cooking water outlets in child care facilities.
   • Our certified technicians follow state-approved testing protocols to identify potential sources of lead contamination in faucets, fixtures, and pipes.
2. Detailed Reporting and Compliance Assistance:
   • We offer a detailed analysis of your water testing results, clearly identifying any issues.
   • If lead is detected above the actionable level (5 ppb), we assist in notifying parents and guardians with clear, compliant communication materials.
   • We help you navigate all required regulatory reporting to meet AB 2370 standards.
3. Corrective Actions and Remediation Protocols:
   • Our team provides remediation plans services,   to ensure your facility’s water meets safety standards.
4. Ongoing Monitoring and Testing:
   • To ensure long-term safety, we offer scheduled re-testing services every five years, as required by law, and periodic assessments to catch any new risks early.
   • We maintain detailed records of testing, results, and corrective actions to ensure your facility stays compliant with state requirements.

Why Choose Us:

• Certified Expertise: Our team consists of certified water quality professionals with extensive experience in lead testing and mitigation.
• Regulatory Knowledge: We stay up-to-date with the latest regulations to ensure your facility remains compliant with AB 2370.
• Comprehensive Support: From testing to remediation and training, we provide a complete solution for lead safety.
• Peace of Mind: Our services ensure that the children in your care have access to safe, lead-free water, giving parents and caregivers confidence in your facility.