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.

  • Our primary service areas 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, 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

General

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 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

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.

  • 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 settle claims as quickly as possible. 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.