Independent inspection services
Independent Mold and Damp Inspection in Portugal
Independent diagnosis, laboratory analysis and monitoring explained clearly, without the commercial framing of treatment sales.
What does "independent" mean?
In Portugal, damp and mold problems are almost always diagnosed by the same company that will later sell the treatment. A free diagnosis is the beginning of a sales funnel — not an impartial information service.
An independent inspection works differently. The inspector charges for their time. They receive no commission from the remediation contractor, the ventilation system manufacturer, or any other company that might benefit from the diagnostic outcome. Their only interest is telling you precisely what you have.
This is the model InspectOS represents — and the only model MoldCheck.pt recommends.
How it works
Inspections are carried out by certified InspectOS inspectors equipped with:
- Precision digital hygrometer — measures relative humidity and air temperature
- Materials moisture meter — non-invasive measurement of moisture content in walls, floors, and ceilings
- Thermal imaging camera — detects thermal bridges, hidden water ingress, and condensation zones invisible to the naked eye
- Sample collection capability — surfaces, materials, and air, for laboratory analysis when indicated
After the inspection, you receive a written report covering: the location and extent of the problem, the probable cause, evidence-based recommendations, and a clear indication of when laboratory analysis is — or is not — necessary.
The report does not include a treatment quote. We do not recommend specific remediation companies. We have no commercial agreements with remediation firms.
TIER 1
Visual and Instrumental Inspection
Standard Inspection
Full property inspection with hygrometer, moisture meter, and thermal imaging camera. Includes written report.
Indicative price: €250–€400 (up to 100 m²) · €400–€800 (up to 250 m²)
Pre-Purchase Inspection
For anyone considering buying a property and wanting to know exactly what they are buying before signing. Includes a report suitable for negotiation or contract withdrawal discussions.
Indicative price: €350–€600
Post-Flood / Emergency Inspection
For properties affected by flooding, burst pipes, or sudden water ingress. Focused on water damage assessment and fungal contamination risk. Rapid response available.
Indicative price: €300–€500
Post-Remediation Verification
Independent confirmation that remediation work was properly carried out and that the problem has genuinely been resolved — before making final payment to the contractor.
Indicative price: €200–€350
TIER 2
Laboratory Analysis
Air Sampling + Mycological Analysis
When visual and instrumental inspection is not enough to identify the species present or quantify risk precisely, we recommend laboratory analysis. Indoor and outdoor air sample collection with analysis at an ISO 17025 certified laboratory. Identifies fungal species present and compares indoor and outdoor concentrations.
Indicative price: €500–€900 (includes inspection, collection, and analysis)
Surface and Material Sampling
Sample collection from visible surfaces and, when indicated, building materials. Suitable for species identification at specific points of concern.
Indicative price: €300–€600
TIER 3
Specialist International Analysis
ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index)
For situations requiring precision diagnosis — especially suspected Stachybotrys, a history of serious water damage, or persistent health-related concerns. Accumulated dust analysis by MSqPCR — the most sensitive method currently available for detecting a history of fungal contamination, including species that air sampling often misses. Sent to a partner laboratory in the United States.
Indicative price: €600–€900
HERTSMI-2
A simplified ERMI focused on the five species considered most clinically relevant: Stachybotrys chartarum, Aspergillus penicillioides, Aspergillus versicolor, Chaetomium globosum, and Wallemia sebi. Developed specifically for clinical assessment in the context of CIRS and building-related illness. Indicative price: €450–€700 Important note: MoldCheck.pt / InspectOS is the only HERTSMI-2 service provider on the Iberian Peninsula and, to our knowledge, in Europe. The reference laboratory for this test is Mycometrics (USA).
Surface Mycotoxin Panel
Chemical analysis of mycotoxins in surface samples. Relevant where toxin production and health effects are suspected.
Indicative price: €700–€1,200
Full Building Microbiome (NGS)
Next-generation genomic sequencing — comprehensive identification of all fungi and bacteria present. The most complete diagnostic currently available for buildings with a complex history of water damage.
Indicative price: €1,000–€1,500
TIER 4
Continuous Monitoring
Indoor Air Quality Sensor + Monitoring
Installation of a continuous monitoring sensor (CO₂, TVOC, temperature, relative humidity). Monthly reporting with trend analysis. Suitable for properties with recurring issues or for post-remediation monitoring.
Indicative price: €150–€300 (installation) + €25–€60/month
Annual Re-Inspection
For properties with a history of damp-related problems. Annual visit for condition assessment and early detection of recurrence.
Indicative price: €180–€280/year
Booking
Book through InspectOS
Inspections are booked through InspectOS — Portugal’s independent property inspection platform.
→ Book an inspection at InspectOSQuestions
Contact us before booking
If you are unsure which service fits your situation, contact us first: info@moldcheck.pt
Email info@moldcheck.pt