Category: Home Inspection

Drinking Water Testing

Why should you test your drinking water?

There are over 1 million private wells serving 3.5 million people in rural areas. Approximately 20,000 new wells are drilled each year. About half of the private water wells that have been tested in the state have at least one water quality problem. Yet, despite the importance of testing your water, only half of wells have ever been tested.

What should you test for?

In general, you should test your water annually for coliform bacteria and every three years for pH and total dissolved solids. If you are concerned about potential pollutants or if you are experiencing aesthetic problems such as staining, taste, or odor, more extensive testing is warranted. Pollutants that enter wells can often be linked to activities on the land surface such as mining, agriculture, or industry.

If you have one of these activities within sight of your home, you may wish to select a drinking water test package based on pollutants most commonly found in association with each activity. Or, if you have concerns about the potential contamination of your well from a near-by septic system, the Agriculture/Septic test package is recommended.

If you are performing this test for the purpose of documenting water quality before and/or after gas-drilling activities, it is recommended that you use an accredited laboratory that can collect your sample and provide full chain of custody.

How do you submit a water sample?

After taking your water sample, you must send the kit to the laboratory by overnight mail along with your payment for the test(s) requested. For the bacteria test, included in all test packages, the laboratory must receive the sample within 30 hours after sampling. If you need the bacteria test only, contact the laboratory to receive a smaller cooler test kit. The lab cannot accept any water samples for bacteria on a Friday.

 

Water Quality Testing

Water testing includes trace analysis capabilities. water analysis capabilities vary by location, please contact to determine the laboratory best suited to your water testing requirements.

Water testing:

Marine Potable Water Quality Testing

Cooling Water Conditioning and Control

Microbiology Services

Water Content Testing for the Petroleum Industry

Formation and Produced Water Analysis

Sea Water Analysis

Water Activity Testing (Aw)

Drinking Water Quality Testing

Water Quality Testing

Environmental Services

 

Water Services

wide range of services assists our clients in all water related sectors including water utilities, industry, oil and gas, ports and harbours, food, power stations, desalination and pharmaceuticals. We help our clients explore water properties and produce quality improvements through the use of practical technologies.

modelling and predictive services provide design and investment information for asset investment and management, delivering substantial cost savings and demonstrable improvements in environmental quality

global network of laboratories, our analytical services range from drinking water to industrial water, wastewater and contaminated groundwater. Intertek also offers inspection and maintenance services for ballast water, water treatment plants and waste water treatment processes.

Modelling – Prediction, data analysis, compliance and impact assessment

modelling services provide environmental assurance and compliance services to the water industry. We deliver comprehensive assessment of asset impacts on the environment and advise on mitigations and interventions to ensure environmental performance, protecting vital resource and delivering cost efficient asset investment and asset management.

Using unique and highly advanced compliance assessment software, for example in the management of bathing waters and commercial shellfish waters, provides enormous amount of understanding and information regarding management, leading to better quality, efficient investment and highly managed assets.

Water Quality Services

provides water quality testing and analysis services on a global bases. comprehensive suite of water testing services includes marine potable water quality testing and legionella management as well as regional specific services like drinking water quality testing and water quality testing that help ensure companies meet and exceed regional specific legal requirements.

Water Activity in Food

provides water activity testing  for food, grains and other agricultural products. food laboratory uses state-of-the art laboratory instrumentation for water activity analysis that allows our customers to remain compliant with government and other food safety programmes.

 

Water Content Testing for Petroleum, Chemicals and Fuels

Determining the water content of crude oil, refined petroleum products, fuels, biofuels, lubricants, chemicals, and other products is important for maintaining quality control, meeting trade specifications, protecting financial value, and enhancing process optimization.

Knowing water content in hydrocarbons enables clients to take steps to reduce risks from corrosion, safety problems, and infrastructure damage which can be caused from unwanted water content levels.

Water content tests for petroleum and biofuel products:

Water content by distillation

Water and sediment

Water vapor content

Trace water content analysis

Additional water content and moisture testing

Additional oil, gas, and biofuel products tested for water content:

Natural gas, condensates, and natural gas liquid (NGL)

Liquid petroleum gases (LPG)

Solvents and volatile solvents

Lubricants and greases

Biofuels, including ethanol, bio-diesel, and bio-mass fuel products

Other products

 

Well Water Testing

Why should you test your well water?

Well water can contain harmful bacteria that causes stomach cramps, diarrhea and other health concerns. Private well owners are encouraged to get their water tested every spring, summer and fall, even if it looks, tastes and smells fine.

Whether your test results are positive or negative, understand that the sample you collected is just a “snapshot” of your well’s water quality. The more samples you have tested, the more confident you can be about the quality of the water you are drinking.

In addition to regularly testing well water, owners should inspect their well at least once a year to make sure it is free from damage and in good working condition.

Sample bottles are available for pickup at that laboratory, and at water testing pickup and drop-off locations.

Obtain a water sample bottle.

​Plan to sample your well water when you are sure it can be delivered to a drop-off location within 12 hours of the collection time.

Remove any aerator, screen, or other attachment from your kitchen faucet. If you cannot do this, take a sample from an inside faucet with no aerator, such as the bathtub. Do not take a sample from an outside faucet or the garden hose.

Turn on the cold water and run for two to three minutes to remove standing water.

Disinfect the end of the faucet spout with an alcohol swab, or a diluted bleach solution (1 part household bleach to 10 parts water).

Turn on the cold water again and run for three minutes before sampling. Remove the lid of the sample bottle. Do not touch the inside of the lid, put down the lid, or rinse out the bottle.

Fill the bottle to “fill line” directly from the tap without changing the flow of water. Do not touch the bottle lip. Replace cap tightly.

Samples must be refrigerated after collection. During transportation, put bottle in a cooler if possible.

Remove ONE of the bar code stickers from the bottle and attach it to the blue card that came with your water sample bottle. This bar code is your PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (PIN).  You will need it to get your results over the phone.

Return the sample and completed form within 12 hours of collection.  If your form is incomplete, the laboratory will not test your sample, and you will need to submit another sample with another form

Bacteriology interpretation

Drinking water is tested for the presence of two groups of bacteria: Total Coliforms and E.coli (Escherichia coli). Total Coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in animal waste, sewage, soil and vegetation. They are also found in the intestines of animals and humans.  Total Coliforms are not likely to cause illness, but their presence indicates that your water supply may have been contaminated by more harmful microorganisms present in surface water seeping into your well.

HOW TO ELIMINATE BLACK MOLD WITH AMMONIA

Wear a respirator and gloves when working with ammonia-based mold cleaning products. Never mix ammonia with chlorinated bleach

Open nearby windows or doors to get a cross-flow of air to dissipate any fumes generated by your cleaning (small mold cleanup projects – large jobs will require negative air pressure and sealing off area to prevent mold spores from escaping throughout residence)

• Combine ammonia and water in 50/50 proportions.
• Pour the solution into a spray bottle and spray contaminated areas evenly.
• Allow the mold killing solution to sit for 5 or 10 minutes.
• ​Scour mold tarnished area with a small brush or equivalent and wipe clean.
• Repeat if necessary.

Often enough, many mold killing products will have ammonia already in them. Be extra cautious to follow the directions on the label to the letter and ensure that the cleanser is never mixed with bleach (in part or whole)!

Otherwise, ammonia is similar to using bleach in that it should only be used on non-porous areas – Always wear gloves when working with any chemical and wash hands immediately, thereafter!

 

Mold Removal with Borax

There are many advantages to using borax to kill mold. For starters, borax is a natural cleaning product and although it is toxic if you swallow it, borax does not emit chemicals or dangerous fumes like some other mold killers. Borax, a white mineral powder, has a pH level of about 9 (baking soda is pH 8.1 and pH 7 is neutral) and a low toxicity.

Borax is commonly used as a deodorizer as well as for cleaning toilets and drains. Borax is also used as an insecticide, herbicide and fungicide and it can be mixed with water in a solution to kill and remove mold as it is a natural mold inhibitor. You can buy borax in supermarkets for a few dollars from the laundry section.

How to Kill Mold with Borax

• To kill mold using borax, create a borax-water solution using a ratio of 1 cup of borax per gallon of water.
• Vacuum up any loose mold with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner to lessen the number of spores stirred up into the air during the cleaning process.
• Use a scrubbing brush with the borax-water solution to scrub the mold off the surface.
• Wipe up any extra moisture and excess mold particles or dust/debris to prevent them spreading into the air once the surface has dried.
• You don’t need to rinse off the borax as the solution will prevent more mold beginning to grow on the surface again.
• Leave the surface to dry completely.

 

How Do You Use Vinegar to Clean Mold?

To safely and effectively clean a small area of mold, ServiceMaster advises the following:

• Add full-strength white distilled vinegar to a spray bottle and spray it on the mold.
• Let it sit for at least an hour before wiping away mold.
• If you need follow-up scrubbing, combine one teaspoon baking soda with two cups of water. Pour it into a spray bottle, shake and spray it onto the mold. Scrub with a brush or scouring pad.
• Rinse with warm water, then spray again with the vinegar and let it dry.

To protect yourself from mold and its spores, wear gloves, a mask and goggles. Gloves also prevent any skin irritation from the vinegar.

Where Not to Use Vinegar to Kill Mold

Because of vinegar’s acidity, it can damage some surfaces. We don’t recommended using vinegar on natural stone, waxed wood, cast iron or aluminum.

 

How to Remove Mold with Baking Soda

Unlike bleach, baking soda won’t harm or discolor the tiles or present any health hazards to the occupants of the home. It will clean the affected area very well, but won’t be as efficient in killing the mold spores as bleach.

There are several different ways you can use baking soda to clean the tiles and grout in your home:

• Mix 1/2 cup baking soda with one gallon of water and spray the mixture on the affected area. Wait for about half an hour, then rinse the surfaces thoroughly with warm water;
• Dip a damp sponge into pure baking soda and scrub down the tiles and grout with it. Rinse with warm water;
• Stir 1/2 cup of baking soda and several teaspoons of water to make a paste you can spread directly over the mold. Apply the paste to the moldy grout, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub away with a bristle brush. Rinse with water and repeat, if necessary.

 

How To Remove Mold From Shower Caulk

Mold on shower caulk can be a little more difficult to remove sometimes, so the procedure is slightly different.

To remove mold from shower caulking you will need:

• A small bowl or similar to mix a solution in
• Some Bleach
• Protective gloves
• A respirator mask
• Baking soda
• Plastic wrap (the stuff from your kitchen is fine)
• A disposable paint brush

Once you have your items, use the following steps to remove mold from shower caulk:

• Put some baking soda in your bowl and slowly add small amounts of bleach until you have a paste-like substance (make more than you need, you don’t want to run out and this is cheap stuff)
• Grab the paint brush and use it to apply the paste to the mold
• Use the plastic wrap to cover the paste on the mold – this may be a bit difficult depending on the location – just do what you can
• Leave it to sit for at least 1 – 2 hours
• Remove the plastic covering and clean off the paste (which may have dried out). If your mold is gone then you are done. If the mold is still there then start again

How to Choose a Professional Mold Remediation Company When Doing the Work Yourself Is NOT an Option

Every week I receive countless emails from readers who are attempting to or who would like to attempt to remediate their own homes in order to avoid the cost of professional mold remediation. Sometimes, this is easily done with techniques and products I have featured on the blog. Most small, contained mold issues are pretty easy to successfully tackle with EC3 products, a “cold” fogger, proper protective gear, and a certified HEPA vacuum. As a matter of fact, there have been many situations in our current home when we have had a small leak or water intrusion incident and have addressed and remediated the issue ourselves lickety-split. Those situations are isolated events and leaks and/or water intrusion that is caught quickly and right when it occurs.

There are other indoor mold situations that are not so straightforward and contained. Thus, I feel it is my responsibility to address the fact that there are definitely times when hiring a professional mold remediation company is the best decision for you and your family. Even with the tools and knowledge I have now, there are some mold clean-up jobs that I would not touch or advise anyone to do themselves, because the risk is not worth the possible reward or savings

When water damage has gone undetected for an extended period of time, causing lots of visible or invisible “behind the walls” damage to a home. In these cases, the damage is often structural and extensive and needs to be fixed along with proper remediation. This is also the type of work that grows in scope as walls are opened up and the extent of the damage and mold growth is revealed.

When you or your family members are extremely sick and/or mold sensitive. Attempting to remediate your own home if you are ill or mold-sensitive can cause major health problems and expose you to mold at levels that can cause your already suffering body more harm. In my opinion, it is just not worth the risk

When elevated levels of “toxic molds” have been identified inside your home. There are certain molds that produce mycotoxins which makes them more acutely dangerous to human health, even in small exposures. These molds are difficult to remediate as the mycotoxins linger and the mold can cause even more health problems when it is killed. Even the dead mold releases VOCs. A professionally trained remediator can clean structures and contents and knows best how to properly contain and handle this type of situation. Some mycotoxin-producing molds include Cladosporium, Penicillium, Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Stachybotrys

 

Remediation for landlords

Mold can be a serious problem—it’s difficult to detect, expensive to remove, and can cause health issues for your renters. Per landlord-tenant laws, however, the implied warranty of habitability requires landlords to keep their rental properties free of health hazards. That’s why it’s important to spot mold issues and remediate them immediately.

Signs Your Rental May Have a Mold Problem

If you do have mold in your rental property, detecting it early is important for the health of your tenants and your finances. Unfortunately, the presence of mold isn’t always obvious, making mold detection challenging in many cases.

Check out areas that have the most exposure to moisture, like the basement and the attic. Basements are usually the dampest parts of a home and have less exposure to light. Also check the attic, where a leaky roof could be creating a friendly environment for mold. Bathroom ceilings are also common offenders because of moisture from showers even if there’s a fan or window. Regularly inspect the ductwork of your HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems too as ductwork can easily circulate spores. Mold also loves dusty surfaces and condensation (from an A/C coil or faulty dehumidifier).

The Difference Between Mold Removal and Remediation

Like we said before, microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, which makes the concept of true “removal” impossible. They float through the air and can settle on any kind of surface. However, when mold takes root in a humid environment and forms a damage-inducing colony, the process of clean-up is considered remediation (aka getting the spores back to normal/natural levels). Removal and remediation may be used interchangeably, but it’s important to know what they mean, especially as you do your research.

Steps to Take for Removing a Mold Infestation

If you can see mold, it needs to go—visible mold growth has no place in a healthy home. The CDC recommends removing all kinds of mold, so it’s usually not worth the time and money to pre-test the spores to see what kind of mold it is or the concentration unless you need specific data for proof or negotiation (e.g. buying a new property or submitting an insurance claim).

 

HOW TO START A MOLD REMEDIATION BUSINESS

With more natural disasters occurring each year, the restoration and remediation industry is growing at a rapid pace. With the right amount of knowledge and an investment you can start your own mold remediation business. In times of recession, a business like mold remediation remains untouched. Recession conditions do not stop disaster from striking, leaving plenty of work for the companies in business at the time

LOCATION

There are a few requirements for starting up your own mold remediation business. One is your business location. Pick an area with a high occurrence of floods or other water damage. Opportunity is key, so don’t forget to do your research before choosing a specific area.

CERTIFICATIONS

To start your own mold remediation business, you will need to check with the regulations of the state where you will be doing business. Some states require specific licensing to conduct business, and without it, you’ll be dead in the water. A mold inspection and remediation certification is a great place to start. The certification will give you the knowledge to start your business while also giving your clients peace of mind. The more certifications you hold, the more services you can provide, expanding your reach.

EQUIPMENT

Equipment is a huge expense when starting up a new business. With mold remediation, you need to be sure to get the commercial-grade equipment, designed to last on the job for hours at a time. While it will cost more up front, you won’t be constantly replacing equipment as you go, saving you money in the long run.

BENEFITS OF STARTING A MOLD REMEDIATION COMPANY

Owning your own business is a feeling like no other. You are the boss who sets the schedule and you get to choose how things operate. You do not have to worry about a recession getting in the way with a mold business, as there is always water damage somewhere. Design your business schedule around what works for you and your family, giving you precious extra time with loved ones.

 

How much does mold removal and remediation cost?

The national average cost of mold removal or remediation is $1,140. However, this cost can range from $60 to $4,300, depending on the size of the mold infestation, its location inside your home and how much specialists charge in your area.

Factors That Impact the Cost to Remove Mold

The size of the affected area can impact the mold or black mold removal cost. If your mold growth is confined to a space that’s less than 10 square feet, you consider cleaning it up yourself for a lower cost. In this case, you’ll want to buy household cleaners and gear (i.e. masks, gloves, goggles) to protect yourself as much as possible.

What to Expect During the Mold Remediation Process

Mold remediation is a multi-step process that involves mold-killing, removing the dead fungi and disinfecting the surfaces and areas to protect against mold regrowth

Performing a mold inspection. Mold testing (or sampling) takes place to identify the type of mold. This step is generally not necessary if you can already see the mold growth. If you think you need an inspection,

Identifying and fixing the source of the mold. Mold thrives and spreads in damp environments. Before mold removal can be effective, the source of the water or dampness must be identified and repaired or removed. A professional may check your attic, crawlspace, air ducts and other areas that typically experience mold growth. The water source may also need to be sealed. Professionals might use infrared scanners and probes to find hidden leaks or seepage.

 

“Mold Removal” vs. Remediation

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants and have the potential to cause other health effects.

Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Get Rid of Mold: DIY or Hire a Pro?

Everyday Mold

Spores thrive on moisture, so expect it to grow in areas that get and stay wet:

• Bathrooms with poor ventilation, especially shower ceilings and tile grout lines.
• Around kitchen and mudroom sinks.
• Along thresholds of exterior doors.
• Basements near hot water heaters and sump pumps.

Everyday Solutions

If you can see it, you probably can get rid of it with a little elbow grease, soap, and water. More stubborn forms usually succumb to a solution of 1:9 bleach-to-water. Spray and wipe.

Problem Mold

If you find spores growing on drywall, studs, and subflooring — especially if the area exceeds 10 sq. ft. — then you’ve got a bona fide mold problem. Don’t bother buying a hardware store petri dish kit, which claims to help identify airborne mold: It doesn’t. The kits might grow some spores for you — they’re always present in indoor air — but the kits can’t guarantee that a statistically significant number of spores are flying around. Also, kits don’t confirm the presence of dead spores (they can be harmful, too) or determine baseline levels in order to compare results after remediation.

 

How to Remove Black Mold

Removing black mold is a step-by-step process that requires patience, an investment in protective gear and black mold removal products, and, of course, the courage to brave dark, cramped spaces inhabited by toxic fungus.

First, you must remove the source of any moisture from the affected area. If any leaks or persistent condensation aren’t alleviated, the mold will likely reappear after removal.

Next, seal any doorways or other openings leading to other areas of the home, place heavy plastic over them, then seal the plastic in place with duct tape. If there are outdoor openings in the room, place an exhaust fan near them to help remove mold spores from the room.

 

How to choose a mold removal service

Choose the correct mold removal service

While all mold remediation companies specialize in helping rid a space of mold, not all companies do the same thing. When in doubt, feel free to ask the company of your choosing if it is one of the following.

The cost of mold removal

Mold removal can be a complicated and pricey venture. Many property owners might take into consideration the cost and the various fees associated with a mold removal service before selecting a company.

Mole environment

Mold grows in many places across the world, so the type of mold can vary wildly on the location it spores. The specific type of mold that grows often depends on the location’s climate and the type of toxins that thrive there.

The speed of service

Mold is a common problem, but the severity and variety of mold vary from place to place. Thus, some mold companies are able to treat mold quicker than others, which is essential when choosing a company.

Additional benefits

Mold companies often do more than just detect and treat mold; some companies contract laboratory and cleaning services to offer additional benefits to people who hire them.

 

Mold Remediation and Restoration

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or on a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

 

BEST MOLD REMOVAL PRODUCTS

HOW TO SPOT MOLD

First, you need to know what mold is and how you can detect it. Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moisture, so it’s often found in areas that are prone to getting wet or humid. This usually includes bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. But if other rooms of your home have flooded, mold may be found there, too. And of course, your boat is the perfect candidate for mold since it’s constantly around water.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN THE BEST MOLD REMOVER

The best mold remover is strong enough to remove mold quickly—before it spreads or continues to make you feel sick—without leaving behind an overwhelming odor of chemicals. Basically, it should be powerful enough to do the job right while still being safe to use in your home or vehicle.

MOLD STAIN REMOVAL PRODUCTS TO TRY

One of the top mold removal products on the market is 303 Mold & Mildew Cleaner+Blocker. This formula was created to remove mold and mildew stains from just about any water-safe surface. It won’t just get rid of the mold; it will also prevent it from occurring again! And since it doesn’t contain bleach, it won’t leave behind any residue or strong odors, so it’s safe to use in any room of the house or any part of the boat.

If you see spots of mold, have signs of chronic moisture and/or detect a musty odor in your home or business, you should contact a mold removal in Charleston, SC before you spend money on mold testing. The company will give you a free evaluation of the situation and have the experience to tell you whether you have a problem or not. If they indeed do advise you to get further testing, you would then need to hire a certified mold assessment consultant to inspect and collect samples from the area for mold testing.

Mold Can Be Sneaky and Prevalent

Mold affects indoor air quality, and, unfortunately, can grow very quickly. In fact, mold can begin to grow in a home with humidity over 60% in under 48 hours. Mold can even grow and thrive in cold spaces, such as a refrigerator, as long as the temperature is above 40-degrees Fahrenheit. “Hidden” rot can also secretly grow in fiberglass insulation, and behind wallpaper and drywall. Even though you may not be able to visibly see the rot, it doesn’t mean that it’s not there and causing damage to your home and your health.

Serious Effects of Mold Growth

The presence of mold in a home has many negative effects. People can be exposed to rot through direct skin contact, breathing, or ingestion. Mold exposure can cause a number of health-related issues, including breathing difficulties, asthma and topical skin rash. Black mold is rare but highly-toxic and contains carcinogenic mycotoxins that are linked to certain types of cancer, liver and nervous system damage, and more.

Mold can also cause structural damage and destroy the value of your home– no one wants to buy or move into a home with a serious mold problem!

Mold growth can also seriously impact your wallet for two reasons: 1) if left in-tact, mold will continue to grow and become increasingly expensive to remove; and 2) due to a rising number of rot-related lawsuits, many home insurance companies now exclude mold insurance from homeowner policies.

When all the mold is removed and the cleanup and disinfecting has been completed, the inside of the containment area will be HEPA vacuumed and sealed, and air scrubbers will be used until the mold assessment consultant takes samples for clearance testing. If any part fails testing it will be reclined under the same containment. Once final clearance is given the containment is removed and the certificate of mold remediation is filled out by the consultant and the mold remediation company.