Independent inspector with no ties to remediation companies

MOLD INSPECTION SERVICES

Clarity. Confidence. Clean Indoor Air.

Mold Inspection & Indoor Air Testing in San Luis Obispo & Santa Barbara – The Mold Detective

Decades of insight. Independent inspections.

The Mold Detective is a locally owned mold inspection company based in Oceano, California, serving the Central Coast region including San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. Founded by Linda, who has been in the mold inspection field since 1998, I provide thorough, non‑invasive testing and reporting services. Unlike remediation firms, I only inspect — so my recommendations are impartial and focused solely on my clients’ best interests.

Certified Mold Inspector with the National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP)

Services Provided by The Mold Detective

Comprehensive Inspections for Healthier Indoor Environments

Services She Provides:

Mold Inspections

I physically inspect each room and take non destructive Air Particle Counts. Based upon those results, I determine where and how many air samples to recommend, to confirm or eliminate the presence of mold.

Indoor Air Quality Testing

During my indoor air quality (IAQ) testing, I collect air samples in key areas throughout the structure—living spaces, basements, crawlspaces—to detect pollutants. Using calibrated equipment, I measure concentrations of mold spores, and allergens to assess your indoor environment’s health.

Surface Sampling

The surface sampling service involves gentle, non‑destructive collection methods—such as swabs, tape-lifts, or bulk samples—from surfaces like drywall, wood, or insulation. These are sent to a lab for species identification and quantification.

Moisture Mapping

Moisture mapping uses tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to scan building envelopes for moisture intrusion, plumbing leaks, or condensation pockets. I interpret zones of elevated moisture to pinpoint risk areas.

Pre‑Purchase Home Inspections

When you’re considering a property purchase, my pre‑purchased inspection includes mold assessment, moisture checks, and indoor air testing as part of the due diligence process. I assess potential problems before closing.

Post‑Remediation Verification

This service will not be needed if there is no mold. If mold remediation is performed, then a bid for clearance testing will be provided, if I write the work protocol or am contacted as a neutral Clearance tester.

Allergen Testing

My allergen testing involves air sampling and targeted sampling in sensitive areas to detect common indoor allergens. This gives insight into triggers for occupants with sensitivities or respiratory issues.

Detailed Inspection Reports

Every service I perform concludes with a detailed inspection report—complete with findings, analysis, annotated photos, and clear recommendations. My aim is to translate technical data into understandable terms.

* Please note: I do not perform asbestos or lead testing and do not offer free inspections or testing *

CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR REVIEWS

Lynne D
It was an amazing experience. at first I was very nervous. I wasn’t sure what was gonna happen. She came to the house explained to me in detail what the process was and took her samples. She communicated with me thoroughly after we got the results and made it very clear That she is here to help in whichever route I take .. overall if you think you have mold or mildew Linda’s the one who will let you know start to finish what it is what is isn’t. I give her 10 stars.
Robert P
Linda was great. She was prompt, and did exactly what she said she would do. I would hire Linda again in a heartbeat. Can’t beat her price as well.
Jennifer Y
1. Speedy to reply by phone 2. Speedy to get exams done 3. Very professional, very knowledgeable and experienced. A pleasure to work with.
Blake M
Linda was absolutely wonderful. My wife suffers from mold illness along with many other conditions. We needed our new home remediated for the second time. The first company would not use a mold inspector of our choice and had to go with theirs. It seemed shady and the end result is that they did not rid our house of mold even though their mold inspector passed us. Linda is EXTREMELY knowledgeable and thorough. She created a plan for the remediation company to follow. We are currently in that process. I will update as it progresses. Linda was so kind and understanding to my wife's condition. We trusted her judgement and findings and she well beyond the call of duty. We highly, highly recommend her.
John S
Linda was great, super kind and very knowledgeable about mold and how to treat/clean to have a safe environment. She gave me peace of mind in my home knowing it’s safe. Definitely recommend giving her a call if you’re on the fence of getting your home checked out.
Aime W
Linda was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. As a renter it felt like we weren’t getting the whole story with the mold blooms and Linda was able to help fill in the blanks with our situation. She has been available for any questions or concerns even after she completed the job. Highly recommend her and Mold Detective
Eli R
Linda has been amazingly professional and informative as well as respectful of my privacy with regards to outside inquiries regarding the rental in question. She is responsive and hard working replying to 10pm messages at 4 am and available months later with helpful expedition of records as well as availability in a remarkable timeframe as far as coming out Christmas Eve day for me. I consider her the best in her field and as hard working as anyone I've ever met. Her credentials are noteworthy and she deserves the status of top of her field nationwide. The cost is an amazing value as a specialist. Five golden stars across the board!
James S
She is very thorough, responsive, unbiased, and very, very knowledgeable.
Steven S
Very thorough inspection; extremely knowledgable with many years of experience. Report was all inclusive with many specific details and recommendations. I would definitely recommend this company for a mold inspection.
Jennifer T
I am so grateful to find Linda AKA The Mold Detective. She was beyond great to work with. She runs a professional operation. Got me scheduled quickly, communicated in a timely manner, kept me updated on each step of the process and got the results quickly. She provides verification of testing from the lab and a comprehensive report. She provided information that was easy to understand and recommendations to follow. All around it was a great experience in a rather stressful situation. If you're in need of these services I would highly recommend Linda. She is very knowledgeable and her experience is evident.
Melissa T
Exceptional service. Very thorough and goes above and beyond. Felt so much better after hiring Linda. It was such a scary experience and felt reassured after the inspection. What an extraordinary businesswoman.