Professional Mold Testing for Residential and Commercial Properties in Montreal, North Shore and South Shore
What is Mold and Why is It Dangerous?
Mold contamination is a serious health hazard and a common issue in homes and commercial buildings across Montreal, Laval, South shore, and Greater Montreal. At Multitest, we provide professional mold air testing services to detect airborne mold spores, ensuring safe indoor air quality and regulatory compliance for homeowners, businesses, and real estate transactions.
What is Mold?
Mold is composed of microscopic fungi that can grow on almost any type of surface. Mold often appears as a stain or a mark and may have a moldy or damp earth smell.
In order to grow, mold requires moisture and a suitable medium, usually cellulose-based materials (cardboard, gypsum, wood) as the fungi feed on the organic compounds contained in these materials. Mold can also grow on plastic, metal, or other materials such as concrete in the right environment (the presence of dust and high humidity are often enough). Mold may even be found on plants and food.
To reproduce, mold releases tiny spores into the air (400 to 2,000 times smaller than a hair) that can enter mucous membranes (mouth, lungs, eyes, etc.) and cause health problems.
Why is Mold Dangerous?
Exposure to airborne mold spores can trigger respiratory problems, allergies, and long-term health issues.
Health risks Linked to Mold
According to Health Canada, excessive humidity and mold may aggravate the following conditions:
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Eye, nose, and throat irritation;
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Coughing and phlegm;
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Wheezing and shortness of breath;
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Asthma symptoms;
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Allergic reactions.
Reactions to mold depend on the degree of exposure and people’s general health. Certain people are more vulnerable, such as children, senior citizens, and people who have a weakened immune system or other health issues such as asthma, acute allergies, or other respiratory illnesses.
Signs You May Need Mold Testing in Montreal and Surrounding Areas
If you notice any of the following signs in your Montreal area property, it's time to schedule a professional mold air test with Multitest.
Visible Mold Growth or Musty Odors
A musty smell or visible mold patches on walls, ceilings, or furniture indicate an active mold problem that may be affecting indoor air quality.
Recent Water Damage or Humidity Issues
If your property has experienced water leaks, flooding, or persistent humidity, mold can grow within 24-48 hours. Testing ensures no hidden mold is affecting your indoor air.
Our Mold Testing Process: Fast and Reliable
At Multitest, we use a comprehensive two-step mold testing process to ensure accurate and detailed results.
STEP 1
Professional Inspection and Air Quality Testing
What does mold testing involve?
It consists of a visual inspection performed by a professional of our partner (chemist or microbiologist) to look for visible fungal growths or excessive humidity. Humidity levels of indoor air and certain building materials are measured using a hygrometer, an electronic tool that is non-intrusive (as it does not damage materials).
In addition, at least two air tests will be performed: one outside (weather permitting) to serve as a reference (baseline) value to compare with the results of the air test(s) taken inside the building (at least one test per floor). The number of spores in the building should ideally be lower than, but at most equal to, the number of spores outside.
It is important to note that an air test is only valid for one floor (sometimes less than one floor). The expert may recommend an additional air or surface test, which will represent an additional cost.
Finally, at least two surface tests (also called tape tests or swabs) will or could be done. This type of test is particularly useful since certain types of molds sometimes emit very few spores, making it difficult to interpret the results using air tests.
STEP 2
Laboratory Analysis and Detailed Reporting
The inspection is followed by a complete report by this expert with recommendations for decontamination work, if required. All samples are sent to an accredited laboratory for precise analysis.
We provide a detailed mold inspection report, including spore concentration levels and recommended remediation steps.
Test Quality and Credibility for Mold Inspection
The laboratory participates in the EMPAT program of the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). EMPAT is a performance evaluation program for environmental microbiology laboratories in accordance with the base requirements of organizations such as Health Canada and the Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ).
Multitest as well as the laboratory are covered by errors and omissions liability insurance
How Much Does a Mold Inspection Cost?
Cost including inspection and complete report by a scientist, one air test per floor as well as surface tests
*Travel fees may apply
Single-floor apartment +/- $850
Bungalow or two-floor apartment +/- $1 020
Cottage or three-floor apartment +/- $1 200
Turnaround time : report in 5 to 10 business days
Other kinds of air tests are available. Contact us for more details.
Useful information about Mold Inspection
As specified by Health Canada, the recommended humidity level for your home is around 50% in summer and 30% in winter; using a dehumidifier may be necessary
Spraying a water/bleach solution is not the ideal solution for cleaning mold.
Cleaning visible mold off a wall will not solve the problem.
A mold test is strongly recommended after performing decontamination or renovation work involving materials affected by mold.
Always wear a half-mask respirator with P100 (HEPA) filters when handling material that has been affected by mold.
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Don’t let mold affect your health and property value. Contact Multitest for professional mold air testing services in Montreal, Laval, South shore, and Greater Montreal. Our certified inspectors provide accurate testing and fast results, ensuring you breathe cleaner air.