Building Investigation Services (BIS) Frequently Asked Questions

(Mold • Lead • Asbestos • IAQ • Moisture Mapping • Large Loss 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 can provide a full loss assessment in a written report with pictures to determine the extent of contamination and deliver a detailed plan on how to correct the issue, with oversight/quality control if needed.

  • 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.

  • Email: intake@buildinginvestigationservices.com.

    Phone options include Fort Wayne (260) 905-3180, Indianapolis (317) 527-6856, and our toll free line (800) 311-3132

  • We are proud to focus our services on the water, fire, and mold damage industry, and as such, we try to provide quick service. We are typically able to make a site visit within 2 business days of the initial call, sometimes faster. We also provide expedited inspections and lab turnaround times for when time is of the essence.

  • 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.

  • This depends on the type of testing being performed, but typically you will receive the initial results within 3 business days of the inspection. However, as samples are shipped to the lab, shipping delays can occur.

    For more specialized testing types such as meth residue, some bacteria testing, or chemical analysis, the turnaround times can be much longer.

    Faster turnaround times may be available depending on the situation for an increased cost.

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 provides pre- and post-remediation testing so restorers and property owners can document that the work was completed correctly and reduce liability.

  • The standard mold testing package is $495 and includes a 3 business day lab results turnaround (depending on shipping) for 3 samples, and 5-7 business day turnaround on the written report. Additional samples are $115 each and faster turnaround is available for an added cost.

    • On-site visual inspection of areas of concern

    • General inspection for elevated moisture levels

    • Three samples (surface or air)

    • Samples sent to the lab for analysis

    • A detailed report after results are complete

  • 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, including sampling and lab analysis with reporting everywhere in Indiana.

  • 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, we aim to support emergency services by offering emergency testing results within 24-48 hours so restorers can keep projects moving while meeting regulations.

Lead testing

  • Yes. BIS provides residential and commercial lead testing. This type of testing identifies lead in surfaces like paint, it is not suitable for identifying lead in foods or personal items. Our testing services are frequently used for renovation, due diligence, and compliance

  • Yes. BIS provides lead paint chip sampling for OSHA and RRP compliance (or for peace of mind), including site assessment, sample collection, lab analysis, and a full report.

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. After initial mapping and demolition, BIS can continue monitoring equipment performance and drying conditions, keeping all parties updated and helping reduce invoice scrutiny because an uninterested third party is documenting what’s wet vs. dry. Our trained staff will communicate the drying progress on a daily basis, and inform the contractor which pieces of equipment are ready to be pulled off.

  • National, or anywhere large, complex losses are. Most of our moisture mapping is performed after large-scale natural disasters, such as hurricanes, freezes, or tornados.

    Typically, if there’s a large-scale hurricane, freeze, or tornado impact to property, we have teams in the area.

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.