How to Become a Mold Inspector in California (2025 Guide)

Updated April 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

Thinking about becoming a mold inspector in California? You’re on the right track. With rising concerns around indoor air quality and mold-related health risks, California is seeing a surge in demand for qualified mold professionals.

Unlike some states, California does not require a state license to become a mold inspector. But that doesn’t mean you can just show up with a flashlight and clipboard. Clients, real estate agents, and legal professionals expect certified, well-trained inspectors — and without the right credentials, you won’t be competitive.

This guide breaks down the certification process, training requirements, and career tips to help you succeed in California’s environmental testing field.

🧭 Overview: Mold Inspection in California

Category	Details
State License Required	❌ No state licensing law
Certifications Needed	✅ Yes — industry certifications strongly preferred
Legal Limitations	Cannot perform both inspection & remediation
Training Required	✅ Yes — approved mold inspection training
Relevant Laws	California SB-732; Civil Code 1102.6

"Mold inspectors in California are not licensed by the state, but they are expected to follow industry standards and disclose findings in real estate transactions." — California Department of Public Health (CDPH)

🪜 Step-by-Step: How to Become a Mold Inspector in California

✅ 1. Meet the Basic Qualifications

Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED
Be physically able to inspect attics, crawlspaces, and moisture-prone areas
Have good communication and report writing skills

🎓 2. Complete a Mold Inspector Training Course

Although California doesn’t license mold inspectors, employers and clients expect formal training. Most reputable certifications require completion of a course that covers:

Mold biology & health effects
Inspection equipment (moisture meters, borescopes, thermal imaging)
Air & surface sampling procedures
Mold report writing (lab chain of custody, remediation recommendations)
Federal mold standards and California laws (SB 732, disclosure regs)

📚 Top Training Providers

Provider	Format	Website
InterNACHI Mold Certification	Online	nachi.org
IAC2 Certification	Online	iac2.org
National Association of Mold Professionals	Online/In-person	moldcareer.com
AHIT Mold Inspector Course	Online	ahit.com

Most courses take 16–24 hours and cost between $300 and $700. Look for certifications that include sample forms, checklists, and a recognized final exam.

📜 3. Get Certified by a National Organization

After training, you’ll need to pass a certification exam. California buyers and attorneys often look for inspectors who are:

Certified Mold Inspectors (CMI) – from NAMP or IAQA
IAC2 Certified – InterNACHI’s indoor air quality program
Certified Residential Mold Inspectors (CRMI) – through ACAC

Many certifications require annual CEUs (Continuing Education Units) to remain valid.

🛑 4. Understand California Legal Limits

Under SB-732, California prohibits any company or individual from offering both mold assessment and remediation on the same job. It’s considered a conflict of interest.

"No person shall engage in both mold assessment and mold remediation on the same property unless specifically exempt." — California Senate Bill 732

If you’re starting your own business, make sure to separate inspection and remediation services — or partner with a third-party remediator.

💼 5. Start Your Mold Inspection Business (or Get Hired)

Once you’re certified, you can:

Work for an environmental testing firm
Offer independent mold inspections
Specialize in real estate transactions or legal cases
Combine mold testing with home inspections or air quality services

Make sure you carry professional liability insurance and errors & omissions (E&O) coverage — especially in California’s litigious housing market.

💵 Salary & Job Outlook in California

Role	Avg. Salary	Notes
Entry-Level Mold Inspector	$45,000	With certification + training
Independent Consultant	$60,000+	Inspection-only, self-employed
Mold Inspector + Air Quality Tech	$65,000+	Dual-certified inspectors
Legal Consultant / Expert Witness	$85,000+	Forensics, litigation support

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for environmental inspection roles is expected to grow by 6% through 2032, especially in states like California where indoor air quality is a concern. — BLS.gov

⚖️ Relevant California Mold Laws & Guidelines

SB-732 Mold Disclosure Law: Requires landlords and sellers to disclose known mold presence
California Civil Code §1102.6: Covers disclosure in real estate transactions
CDPH Mold Guidelines: California Department of Public Health provides non-regulatory guidance
EPA Mold Resources: Offers national best practices on mold cleanup and testing

📎 California Senate Bill 732
📎 CDPH Mold Resources
📎 EPA Mold Guidelines

🧠 FAQs: Mold Inspector Certification in California

Do I need a license to inspect for mold in California?

No. California does not require a state-issued license, but professional certifications are essential for credibility and legal protection.

Can I be both a mold inspector and remediator?

Not on the same job. Under California law, this is a conflict of interest unless you are exempt under specific conditions.

How long does it take to become certified?

Most programs can be completed in a few days. Including study time and testing, expect to be fully certified within 1–2 weeks.

What tools do I need as a mold inspector?

At minimum: moisture meter, hygrometer, air pump, sampling cassettes, camera, PPE, and report software.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. Liability and E&O insurance are highly recommended — especially if you plan to operate independently.

🧾 Final Checklist: Becoming a Mold Inspector in California

✅ Complete approved training
✅ Pass a national certification exam
✅ Follow SB-732 legal restrictions
✅ Get insured
✅ Start your business or apply for jobs

Ready to become a certified mold inspector in California? With the right credentials and tools, you can step into a high-demand field and help protect health, homes, and businesses across the state.

💡 Want to expand your skillset? Consider getting certified in indoor air quality, asbestos awareness, or lead-based paint inspections to boost your income and versatility.

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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.