Mold Inspection Trades
Updated April 13, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Mold inspectors play a critical role in keeping homes and buildings safe from hidden moisture damage. As awareness of indoor air quality grows, so does demand for licensed mold professionals who can identify, document, and help prevent mold-related problems.
Whether you're just entering the trades or looking to specialize, mold assessment is a career path with low startup costs, high flexibility, and meaningful impact.
What Do Mold Inspectors Do?
Mold inspectors — also called mold assessors — are trained to:
- Inspect homes and buildings for signs of mold and moisture
- Collect air and surface samples for lab testing
- Use tools like moisture meters, hygrometers, and infrared cameras
- Write detailed reports and remediation recommendations
- Follow Florida and national mold inspection standards (e.g., ASTM D7338)
Unlike remediators, mold inspectors do not clean or remove mold — they strictly assess and report.
Salary & Job Outlook
| Role | Avg. Salary | Job Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Mold Inspector | $45,000 | Moderate |
| Licensed Mold Assessor | $60,000+ | High |
| Expert Witness / Consultant | $85,000+ | Niche |
📊 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, environmental science and inspection roles are projected to grow through 2032, especially in moisture-prone states like Florida.
How to Become a Mold Inspector
Follow these basic steps:
- Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a state-approved mold assessor course (14+ hours)
- Pass the Florida state exam (via PSI)
- Submit fingerprints and a license application to the DBPR
State Licensing & Requirements
We’ve written state-by-state guides that walk you through exactly what’s required.
| State | Step-by-Step Guide |
|---|---|
| Florida | Become a Mold Inspector in Florida |
| Texas | Become a Mold Inspector in Texas |
| California | Become a Mold Inspector in California |
Explore more: All State Licensing Pages »
Training Options
You can train through:
- NETI Education (DBPR approved)
- InterNACHI Mold Courses
- In-person or online mold assessment bootcamps
🧪 Most programs take 2–4 days and cost $300–$600.
State Licensing & Requirements
Florida requires mold assessors to be licensed through the DBPR. Other states may require certification through national organizations like the ACAC.
Common requirements include:
- Mold assessor training certificate
- Passing score on a state or national exam
- Fingerprint background check
- 14 hours of continuing education every 2 years
Skills Needed
- Strong attention to detail and documentation
- Knowledge of moisture, mold, and indoor air quality
- Basic report writing and sampling procedures
- Communication skills (client education is key)
- Familiarity with inspection tools and lab procedures
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Low barrier to entry (fast training, low startup cost)
- In-demand in Florida and other humid states
- Ability to work independently or start a business
Cons:
- No national license standard (rules vary by state)
- Must stay current on changing health and building codes
- Can involve litigation or stressful claims work
Related Pages
- Explore All Skilled Trades
- Electrical Trades
- HVAC Trades
- Plumbing Trades
- Welding Trades
- Carpentry Trades
- Solar Trades
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We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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