How to Become a Mold Inspector: Licensing, Training & Salary Guide

Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

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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:

  1. Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED
  2. Complete a state-approved mold assessor course (14+ hours)
  3. Pass the Florida state exam (via PSI)
  4. 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:

🧪 Most programs take 2-4 days and cost $300-$600.

Trade Schools for Mold Inspectors

While mold inspection training is often completed through short certification courses, some trade schools now offer environmental inspection programs that include mold assessment as part of a broader curriculum. These can be ideal if you want:

  • Comprehensive training – Courses may cover mold, lead, asbestos, and general home inspection
  • Hands-on labs – Practice using moisture meters, infrared cameras, and air sampling pumps
  • Career services – Some schools connect graduates with remediation firms, environmental testing labs, or inspection companies
  • Stackable credentials – Earn additional certifications alongside mold assessor training

Typical timeline: 2–8 weeks for focused inspection programs, with tuition ranging from $500–$2,500 depending on location and scope.

Many inspectors pair a mold assessor license with a general home inspection certification to expand services and increase earning potential.

You can explore trade schools by state.

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

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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

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.