Environmental testing: frequently asked questions

Find answers about mold assessments, asbestos testing, lead paint-chip testing, and large-loss moisture documentation.

  • BIS assesses damaged properties to provide actionable data to all materially interested parties—especially on complex losses. Services include asbestos testing, mold inspections/testing, lead testing, indoor air quality assessment, moisture mapping/monitoring, and safety monitoring, with emergency response available.

  • BIS tests for a wide range of potential contaminants including asbestos, mold, lead, bacteria, tear gas, VOCs, meth residue, combustion byproducts like soot, ash, and char, unidentifiable odors, sewer gas, and more, based on what’s most relevant to your situation.

  • Yes. BIS documents accessible areas, moisture conditions, and suspected contamination within an agreed inspection scope. The report identifies the areas assessed, methods, observations, relevant laboratory results, limitations, and recommended next steps. Additional investigation, monitoring, or post-remediation verification can be arranged when needed. An assessment does not establish every concealed condition or guarantee that all damage has been identified.

  • Our primary location is 211 S Philips St. Kokomo, IN 46901. We also have staff that operate out of Fort Wayne and Indianapolis.

  • Environmental testing and assessments are provided throughout Indiana, and adjacent states; moisture mapping and monitoring is available nationwide for large-loss claims.

    Our primary service areas for testing are Fort Wayne and surrounding areas, Indianapolis and surrounding areas, Kokomo, Lafayette, La Porte, South Bend, and Elkhart. However, we do service all of Indiana, and adjacent states especially for larger/commercial projects.

  • Statewide / Nationwide: (800) 311-3132

    Kokomo: (765) 553-6536
    Fort Wayne: (260) 905-3180
    Indianapolis: (317) 527-6856

    intake@buildinginvestigationservices.com

    Request an inspection. For urgent property losses, call so we can confirm availability and response options.

  • Routine inspection appointments are typically available within two business days, subject to the location, service, and inspector availability. For an urgent property loss, call (800) 311-3132 to discuss response options. We confirm scheduling or mobilization before dispatch. Appointment availability is separate from laboratory and report turnaround.

  • We provide a written report with all relevant photos, a chain of custody and lab analysis report, as well as our interpretation of those results based on our inspection. We also provide next steps to help you decide what is needed for your unique situation.

  • Standard mold, lead, and asbestos laboratory results are typically available within two business days of inspection for appointments completed by 2 p.m. local time, provided samples can reach a UPS location before its shipping cutoff. Remote sites, lengthy projects, sample type, shipping disruptions, and laboratory capacity may extend that timing. Qualifying projects can request next-business-day laboratory results for a $50 overnight shipping fee; confirm availability when scheduling. Laboratory results and the completed assessment report are separate milestones; we will confirm report delivery for your project. Specialized analyses, including meth residue, some bacteria testing, and chemical analysis, may require more time.

Mold inspections, testing, and indoor air quality (IAQ)

  • Yes. BIS provides mold inspection, mold testing, and indoor air quality (IAQ) services, from peace-of-mind inspections, to court case preparation/defense, to full mold remediation protocols for large, complex commercial losses.

  • Yes. BIS focuses on identifying the issue and developing a remediation plan/protocol so you can move forward with the right scope and documentation.

  • Yes. BIS can evaluate post-remediation conditions against the project’s agreed verification criteria. Depending on the scope, this may include a visual assessment, moisture measurements, and appropriate sampling. The report documents the areas assessed, methods, findings, and limitations. Verification applies to the observed conditions and agreed criteria at the time of assessment; it does not guarantee that all concealed conditions are resolved or that the building is safe for every occupant.

  • Targeted Mold Assessment — $495. Includes a focused inspection, written report, and up to three mold samples. Comprehensive Mold Assessment — $795. Includes an in-depth inspection, detailed reporting, and up to six mold samples; it is also the starting price for commercial inspections, with larger or more complex properties quoted according to scope. Additional mold samples are $100 each. Standard laboratory results are typically available within two business days of inspections completed by 2 p.m. local time, subject to same-day UPS shipping access. Remote sites, lengthy projects, shipping, sample type, and laboratory capacity may extend timing. Qualifying next-business-day results require a $50 overnight shipping fee. Confirm laboratory and completed-report delivery when scheduling.

    • On-site visual inspection of areas of concern

    • General screening for elevated moisture conditions

    • Up to three mold samples with the Targeted Mold Assessment

    • Up to six mold samples with the Comprehensive Mold Assessment

    • Laboratory analysis and a detailed written report interpreting the findings

  • Not usually. Mold results need context, including building conditions, moisture status, ventilation, and the reason for testing. Our reports focus on what the data suggests, what it does not prove, and what the most practical next steps are.

  • We take a methodical approach, but no one can guarantee discovery in every case—especially if the issue is intermittent or conditions have changed over time. We document what we can confirm, what remains uncertain, and what the next best steps are to narrow it down.

  • We can document building conditions, sampling results, and moisture/contamination indicators, but “safe” can involve medical factors and individual sensitivity. We recommend discussing health concerns with a medical professional; our role is to provide clear environmental documentation to support informed decisions.

Asbestos testing

  • Yes. BIS provides residential and commercial asbestos testing throughout Indiana. The Targeted Asbestos Material Assessment is $395 and includes a limited inspection of identified materials or renovation areas, a photographic report, and up to four standard PLM bulk analyses. Additional analyses are $70 each. Standard laboratory results are typically available within two business days of inspections completed by 2 p.m. local time, subject to same-day UPS shipping access. Remote sites, lengthy projects, shipping, sample type, and laboratory capacity may extend timing. Qualifying next-business-day results require a $50 overnight shipping fee. Confirm laboratory and completed-report delivery when scheduling. Larger or more complex projects are quoted according to scope.

  • BIS generally follows a simple process:

    1. Consultation - generally by phone

    2. On-site inspection to identify potential ACMs

    3. Sample collection and lab analysis

    4. Reporting and submitting relevant IDEM forms when necessary

  • Yes. For qualifying projects, next-business-day laboratory results are available for a $50 overnight shipping fee, helping restorers keep work moving while meeting applicable requirements. Availability can depend on inspection timing, sample type, and laboratory capacity.

Lead testing

  • Yes. BIS provides residential and commercial lead paint-chip testing throughout Indiana. The Targeted Lead Paint-Chip Assessment is $395 and includes a limited inspection of identified painted components, a photographic report, and up to four laboratory paint-chip analyses. Additional samples are $70 each. Standard laboratory results are typically available within two business days of inspections completed by 2 p.m. local time, subject to same-day UPS shipping access. Remote sites, lengthy projects, shipping, sample type, and laboratory capacity may extend timing. Qualifying next-business-day results require a $50 overnight shipping fee. Confirm laboratory and completed-report delivery when scheduling. This pricing applies to paint-chip sampling rather than XRF testing. Larger or more complex projects are quoted according to scope.

  • BIS provides lead paint-chip sampling and laboratory reporting that can support project planning and applicable OSHA or EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) requirements. The correct testing method and personnel qualifications depend on the project and jurisdiction. A paint-chip result describes the sampled coating; it does not measure worker airborne exposure or, by itself, establish full compliance. Worker exposure assessment, required certifications, work practices, and records remain separate responsibilities. Tell us the purpose of the testing before scheduling so we can confirm the appropriate scope.

Moisture mapping and large loss claims

  • BIS moisture mapping helps find hidden moisture that can lead to mold growth, structural deterioration, and claim disagreements. It’s built to support clear documentation and alignment across stakeholders, to support faster, clearer decision-making. No more hand-drawn maps.

  • BIS has a comprehensive, proven process that includes:

    • Initial site assessment + photo documentation

    • Detailed moisture mapping using thermal imaging and moisture meters

    • Ongoing monitoring, if requested

    • Actionable reporting for adjusters/restorers/property teams

  • BIS moisture mapping/monitoring is for large-loss insurance claims, helping insurance adjusters, public adjusters, restoration contractors, and property management teams reduce delays and miscommunication with data-backed documentation.

  • Yes. BIS can document moisture readings, drying conditions, and equipment observations over repeat visits. Reports compare measured locations over time and support decisions against the agreed drying goals. The visit frequency, reporting schedule, and any equipment recommendations are confirmed for the project. Our findings reflect observed conditions within the assessment scope, independent of a preferred invoice or claim outcome.

  • BIS provides nationwide moisture mapping and monitoring for large or complex property losses, including storm, hurricane, and freeze events. Mobilization depends on the project scope, location, site access, travel conditions, and team availability. Call (800) 311-3132 to discuss your needs and confirm response timing.

Who we work with

  • We perform testing and assessment work for a wide range of clients including property owners, property managers, restoration contractors, insurance adjusters/TPAs, real estate agents, and attorneys. Our role is to provide clear, defensible documentation so the right decisions can be made based on data.

  • Yes. We often support attorneys and their experts with site inspections, sampling, documentation, and clear reporting for cases involving mold, moisture, indoor air quality, and building condition disputes. If the project is litigation-related, tell us up front so we can align the scope and deliverables appropriately.

  • Yes. We frequently assist with real estate due diligence when there are concerns about mold, moisture intrusion, odors, asbestos, or lead. We focus on fast, clear answers and documentation that helps buyers, sellers, and agents decide what to do next.

  • Yes. We support claim teams by providing objective documentation and (when applicable) moisture mapping and monitoring that clarifies extent/conditions and helps align stakeholders on scope and progress.

  • Yes. We help property managers document conditions related to moisture, microbial growth, odors, and other environmental concerns, with clear reporting that supports decision-making and communication.