Environmental Testing
What It Is, When You Need It, and Why It Matters

  Not all damage is visible. After a fire, water leak, or extended vacancy, harmful particles can linger in your home, even after things look clean. That’s where environmental testing comes in. These tests help detect what you can’t see: poor air quality, chemical residue, mold spores, and more.

  Whether you’re preparing a home for sale, responding to an insurance claim, or simply trying to make sure your living space is safe, here’s what you need to know about environmental testing—and when to get it done.

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1. What Is Environmental Testing?

  Environmental testing refers to the analysis of air, surfaces, dust, and materials for harmful substances. At Mulliner, we commonly test for:

 

• Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) — tiny particles from smoke, dust, and debris that can irritate lungs and worsen health conditions

 

• VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) — gases released by certain cleaning products, paints, adhesives, or smoke

 

• SVOCs (Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds) — often left behind after smoke exposure or chemical use

 

• Formaldehyde — found in pressed wood products or insulation

 

• Mold spores and mycotoxins — floating in the air or embedded in dust

 

• Heavy metals — including lead and metals outlined in CAM 17 analysis (common after wildfires or industrial exposure)

  Testing is conducted using industry-standard collection methods and is processed by certified laboratories to ensure accurate results.

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2. When Should You Test?

  You don’t need to test for everything all the time, but there are situations where it’s strongly recommended:

 

• After a fire or smoke event (even if the fire was nearby, not inside)

 

• After flooding or water damage

 

• If the property was vacant or closed up for a long time

 

• Before selling or renting a home

 

• If there are health complaints like coughing, headaches, or allergic reactions

 

• If mold, strong odors, or unusual dust are present

 

• When submitting insurance or legal claims related to damage or cleanup

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3. Why Testing Matters

  Environmental damage can linger without obvious signs. Testing helps:
 

• Confirm whether your property is safe to occupy

 

• Support insurance claims or disputes

 

• Create a clear action plan for cleaning and remediation

 

• Protect tenants, buyers, or family members from exposure

  In some cases, testing may reveal that no major cleaning is needed, saving you time and money. In others, it provides proof that cleanup was done properly.

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4. What Happens After Testing?

  Once samples are collected, they’re sent to a certified lab for analysis. Results usually arrive within 2–5 business days, depending on the tests ordered.
 

We provide:
 

• A detailed summary of findings

 

• Easy-to-understand explanations of what levels are considered safe

 

• Recommendations for next steps, whether that’s additional cleaning, air filtration, or professional remediation

  If you’re working with an insurance company, we can format the report to meet documentation requirements.

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Final Thoughts

  Environmental testing removes the guesswork. Whether you’ve experienced a fire, a leak, or just want peace of mind, the results give you a clear picture of your indoor environment. At Mulliner, we help property owners test smart, choosing the right tests for each situation, without upselling or unnecessary extras.