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Frequently Ask Questions

Radon Testing

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends fixing your home if radon levels are above 4 picoCuries per liter of air (pCi/L). Peak can help you find the right solutions if mitigation happens to be needed.

EPA recommends that testing device(s) be placed in the lowest level of the home suitable for occupancy. This means testing in the lowest level (such as a basement), which a buyer could use for living space without renovations. Also for best results, testing should take place at least 3 feet from any windows, doors, or openings.

Your prospective home will undergo many required inspections and tests before you buy it. You want to make sure that the home you’re making an offer on is in a good, livable condition. The Peak team ensures peace of mind when it comes to the big purchase with professional testing and tamperproof systems.

Radon levels tend to be higher during the winter or colder months. This is due to a phenomenon known as the thermal stack effect, where the colder temperatures outside cause the air inside the home to warm up and rise, creating a kind of vacuum that draws in air from the ground, bringing radon with it. It is essential to monitor radon levels in the home, especially during this time, to ensure the health and safety of residents. Regular testing can help mitigate the risks associated with radon exposure and prevent long-term health consequences.

Radon gas is incredibly dangerous due to its radioactive properties. Once inhaled, its particles become trapped inside the lungs, exposing the surrounding tissues to ionizing radiation. Over time, this exposure can lead to the development of cancerous cells, particularly in the form of lung cancer. Unfortunately, the effects of radon are not immediately apparent, making it an insidious threat to human health.

Adding to this concern, recent estimates from the EPA reveal that radon currently causes an alarming 21,000 deaths from lung cancer each year. This makes it the leading environmental cause of cancer. These statistics alone highlight how crucial it is to raise awareness about this deadly gas and emphasize the significance of implementing measures to control radon levels in homes and other indoor environments. 

Radon poisoning is a serious health concern that occurs when an individual is exposed to high levels of radon gas. When inhaled, radon gas can damage the cells lining the lungs, leading to lung cancer. The symptoms of radon poisoning are similar to those of other respiratory conditions, including shortness of breath, a new or worsening cough, pain or tightness in the chest, hoarseness, and trouble swallowing. The symptoms may vary depending on the extent of exposure and how long the individual has been exposed to radon. 

Radon enters homes through the ground, primarily through cracks in the foundation, gaps in construction joints, and openings around pipes and utility lines. It can also enter through well water and be released into the air when water is used. Radon levels can vary based on factors such as soil composition, ventilation, and building design. Professional radon testing is essential to accurately determine the levels of radon in a home.

When it comes to radon testing, homeowners often debate between DIY testing and hiring professionals. Here’s a brief comparison:

1. DIY Radon Testing:

  • Cost-effective option.
  • Accuracy depends on following instructions correctly.
  • Placement and interpretation may pose challenges.
  • Short-term tests may not provide a comprehensive assessment.
  • Certification of kits may be a concern.

2. Professional Radon Testing:

  • Expertise and experience ensure accurate results.
  • Proper equipment placement and interpretation.
  • Offers both short-term and long-term monitoring.
  • Provides expert advice on mitigation if necessary.

While DIY testing is budget-friendly, professional testing offers greater accuracy, expertise, and comprehensive monitoring. Hiring professionals like Peak Environmental ensures reliable results and access to knowledgeable experts for guidance.

If radon levels in your home are found to be elevated, it’s important to take action promptly to reduce the risk. Radon mitigation techniques vary based on the home’s construction and the severity of the radon problem. Typically, a certified radon mitigation professional can design and install a mitigation system tailored to your home. These systems can effectively reduce radon levels and help maintain a safe indoor environment for you and your loved ones.

At Peak Environmental, we pride ourselves on being a trusted provider of radon testing services. Our team of certified professionals utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and follows industry best practices to ensure accurate results. We understand the importance of your family’s safety and are committed to delivering exceptional service. With our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, we aim to provide you with peace of mind and help you create a healthy living environment.

Water Testing

To test water quality:

  1. Get a testing kit or contact a professional service like Peak Environmental.
  2. Follow instructions for sample collection and testing.
  3. Perform tests for bacteria, pH, chlorine, and contaminants.
  4. Interpret results or seek expert guidance.
  5. Take appropriate action for water treatment or improvement. Choose Peak Environmental for reliable water testing. Contact us today.

Experts recommend testing your water at least once a year for bacteria, nitrates, and total dissolved solids (TDS). However, the frequency of testing will depend on a few factors, such as the age of your well, the depth of the well, and environmental risk factors. For example, if your well is older or located near agricultural or industrial areas, you may want to test more frequently.

The most common home water contaminants include lead, fluoride, chlorine, bacteria, viruses, nitrates, and arsenic. Lead is a harmful heavy metal that can seep into the water supply from old lead pipes or outdated plumbing fixtures. Exposure to lead can cause long-term health effects, particularly in children. Fluoride is added to water in some areas as a form of dental health treatment, but excessive amounts of fluoride can be dangerous to human health. Chlorine is used to disinfect water as it passes through the municipal water system, but it can create unwanted byproducts that are known carcinogens. Bacteria and viruses can also find their way into the water supply and cause illness. Nitrates are chemicals that come primarily from fertilizer and can be particularly harmful to infants. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can be found in groundwater and can cause skin damage and other serious health issues over time. It is important to regularly test your water for these contaminants to ensure that it is safe for you and your family to drink.

Well water does not necessarily have fluoride, as it is not regulated or treated like municipal water. Fluoride is typically added to municipal water supplies to aid in the prevention of tooth decay. However, the presence of fluoride in well water is dependent on the local geology and mineral content of the surrounding area. Some regions naturally have high levels of fluoride in their groundwater, while others have very low levels. In fact, several states recommend testing private wells for fluoride levels, as excessive amounts of fluoride in drinking water can lead to health issues such as dental fluorosis and bone disease. Therefore, if you rely on well water for your drinking needs, it’s crucial to have your water tested regularly to ensure it meets safety and health standards.

Contaminated water poses health risks such as gastrointestinal problems, infections, skin irritations, and respiratory complications. Common contaminants include bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial pollutants. Short-term effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and skin rashes, while long-term exposure can lead to chronic illnesses and organ damage. Regular water testing is essential to identify and address contamination. At Peak Environmental, our certified professionals offer advanced testing and provide solutions such as filtration systems and water purification methods to ensure the safety of your water supply. Prioritize your health and schedule a water testing appointment with us today.

When it comes to water testing, professional testing offers accurate and reliable results with comprehensive analysis of contaminants. Certified experts use specialized equipment and provide expert interpretation of results, ensuring peace of mind. DIY testing may lack precision and overlook potential hazards. Also, DIY testing often requires you to interpret the results on your own, which can be challenging without proper knowledge and expertise. Choose professional water testing from Peak Environmental for accurate assessments and to prioritize your health and well-being.

Scheduling & Logistics

Yes. Bundled services are available.

Not required, but highly recommended.

Yes, but please do so at least 24 hours in advance to avoid fees. Trip fees may apply if inspectors must return due to access issues or incorrect property details.

Mold Services

There are thousands of types of mold they fall into one of 2 basic categories, allergenic and toxic. Allergenic molds affect people like other allergens and may be problematic and even dangerous for some people, others may tolerate it without any noticeable effects. Additionally, the ability to tolerate a particular type of mold may change over time.  Toxic molds can be especially dangerous and are a hazard to all. 

 

While we recommend all molds be controlled, toxic molds require additional considerations. The type of mold cannot be identified visually without a microscope. This is one of the main reasons testing is important.  Determining the type of mold can often give the remediator an indication of where to find the source and help determine the scope and cost of remediation. 

Mold sampling should be done whenever there is visible or suspected mold growth within a building’s interior. This can include visible mold on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and floors, or the presence of a musty odor, which can be indicative of mold growth. It is also recommended to conduct mold sampling after any water damage or flooding event in order to identify potential mold growth.

There are various methods for mold sampling, including air sampling and surface sampling. Air sampling involves collecting airborne mold spores using a specialized tool that captures particles in the air. Surface sampling involves taking physical samples of mold growth on surfaces, such as by swabbing or cutting out a piece of material for analysis.

The worst seasons for mold growth are typically the seasons with the highest humidity levels – spring and summer. During these seasons, air conditioning units are frequently running, and windows are often open, leading to higher moisture levels inside the house. Furthermore, warm temperatures allow mold to grow and spread quickly. Fall and winter are less conducive for mold growth, as the humidity levels are generally lower, and the air is drier. However, it is crucial to note that mold can still grow during these seasons if moisture levels are left unaddressed.

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain species of fungi(Mold). Mycotoxins can cause a variety of adverse health effects in humans and animals, including acute toxicity, long-term exposure risks, and potential carcinogenic effects. Mycotoxins are considered dangerous due to their potential to contaminate food and feed, leading to serious health problems for animals and humans alike. These toxins can cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, allergy-like reactions, intestinal irritation, and even death.

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in warm, damp, and humid environments. It spreads by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can be inhaled and cause health problems. Mold can grow anywhere in your home, including on walls, ceilings, floors, carpets, and furniture. It can cause a musty odor and discoloration, and in severe cases, it can cause structural damage.

The problem with mold is that it’s not always visible. Sometimes, it can grow behind walls or under carpets, making it difficult to detect. That’s why it’s important to hire a professional mold test company to conduct a thorough inspection of your home. They have the tools and expertise to detect mold growth, even if it’s hidden. By detecting mold early, you can take action to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage to your home and health.

Some homeowners may attempt to test for mold themselves using DIY kits. While these kits may seem like a cost-effective solution, they’re not always reliable. DIY kits may not be able to detect all types of mold, and they may produce false negatives or false positives.

Professional mold test companies, on the other hand, use specialized equipment and techniques to detect mold growth accurately. They can also identify the type of mold present and assess the severity of the problem. They can provide you with a comprehensive report that outlines the findings and recommends next steps.

It’s important to note that not all mold test companies are created equal. When choosing a company, make sure they’re certified and experienced in mold testing. Ask for references and check their reviews online. A reputable company will be transparent about their methods and communicate clearly with you throughout the process.

When you hire a professional mold test company, they’ll conduct a thorough inspection of your home. This will involve a visual inspection, moisture measurements, air sampling, and surface sampling.

A visual inspection involves examining your home for signs of mold growth, such as discoloration, musty odors, and water damage. The inspector will also look for sources of moisture, such as leaking pipes or water damage.

Moisture measurements involve using specialized equipment to measure the humidity levels in your home. High humidity levels can indicate the presence of mold.

Air sampling involves taking samples of the air in your home to detect the presence of mold spores. This can help identify areas of mold growth that may not be visible.

Surface sampling involves taking samples of surfaces in your home, such as walls or floors, to test for the presence of mold.

After the inspection is complete, the mold test company will provide you with a report that outlines the findings and recommendations for remediation

The mold test report will provide you with information on the type of mold present, the severity of the problem, and the recommended next steps.

If mold is present, the report may recommend that you hire a mold remediation company to remove the mold. The report may also recommend steps you can take to prevent mold growth in the future, such as fixing leaks or improving ventilation.

It’s important to take action quickly if mold is detected in your home. Mold can spread quickly and cause health problems if left untreated. Contact a reputable mold remediation company to remove the mold and take steps to prevent future growth.

Mold can grow anywhere in your home, but there are some areas that are more prone to mold growth than others. These include:

– Bathrooms, especially in the shower or around the tub

– Kitchens, especially around the sink or dishwasher

– Basements or crawl spaces

– Attics

– Laundry rooms

Mold can also grow on carpets, furniture, and clothing if they become damp or wet. It’s important to keep these areas dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold growth.

As we mentioned earlier, mold isn’t always visible. However, there are some signs that may indicate that mold is present in your home. These include:

– Musty odors

– Water stains or discoloration on walls or ceilings

– Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper

– Warped or bulging walls or floors

– Allergic reactions, such as sneezing or coughing

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a professional mold test company to conduct an inspection.

Sewer Scopes

A sewer scope inspection is a form of plumbing inspection that involves the use of specialized equipment to inspect the sewer lines and assess their condition. This type of inspection is typically carried out by a trained professional who uses a video camera to visually inspect the inside of the sewer lines. The camera is designed to be flexible and can navigate through bends and turns in the pipes to provide a comprehensive view of the entire system.

1. Early Detection & Preventive Maintenance: By identifying issues early and taking proactive measures, you can prevent costly repairs and replacements down the line. Timely actions can address minor problems before they escalate, saving you from extensive damage and expenses.

2. Minimized Property Damage & Accurate Diagnosis: With accurate diagnosis using advanced equipment, targeted repairs are possible, minimizing the need for disruptive excavation and reducing property damage. Precise solutions mean cost-effective repairs.

3. Enhanced Longevity & Compliance: Regular inspections and maintenance extend the lifespan of your sewer system, avoiding premature failure and costly replacements. Additionally, compliance with regulations ensures you avoid potential fines or penalties.

Investing in professional sewer inspections ensures cost savings, peace of mind, and a well-maintained sewer system. Contact Peak Environmental for your inspection needs today.

Sewer scope inspections are important for several reasons. First and foremost, they can help identify issues with the sewer lines before they become major problems. By catching these issues early, homeowners can avoid costly repairs and replacements down the road. In addition, sewer scope inspections can be useful for detecting blockages, leaks, root intrusions, and other types of damage that can affect the performance of the sewer system.

If your sewer keeps backing up, there are several steps that you can take to address the issue. The first step is to identify the underlying cause of the backup. This can be done by inspecting the pipes and plumbing system, either on your own or with the assistance of a professional plumber. Common causes of sewer backups include clogs caused by hair, grease, or other materials, tree roots invading the pipes, damaged or corroded pipes, or a collapsed sewer line.

 

Once the cause of the backup has been identified, you can take steps to address the issue. If the backup is due to a clog, you can try using a plunger or a drain cleaning product to clear the blockage. If this doesn’t work, you may need to call in a plumber to use specialized tools to clear the clog.

The responsibility for sewage backup typically lies with the property owner. This is because the main sewer line that leads out from the property and connects to the local sewer system is typically the responsibility of the property owner. Any blockages or damage to this line can cause sewage backup in the property, and it’s the owner’s responsibility to address the issue and ensure that the line is cleared or repaired. 


There are situations where the responsibility may lie with the local government or utility company. If the blockage or damage occurs in the main sewer line that is owned by the local government or utility company, then they may be responsible for addressing the issue and clearing the blockage.

  1. Frequent drain clogs or persistent blockages.
  2. Slow drains and gurgling sounds in multiple fixtures.
  3. Foul odors coming from drains, yard, or basement.
  4. Sewage backup in drains, toilets, or sinks.
  5. Pooled water or soggy areas in the yard.
  6. Increased pest activity, especially rats or insects.
  7. Cracks in the foundation or settling of the property.

Don’t ignore these signs! Contact Peak Environmental for a professional sewer inspection. Our advanced methods can identify issues early on and prevent costly repairs. Schedule your inspection today for a properly functioning sewer system.

Asbestos Sampling

An Asbestos license is required in the US whenever asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are to be disturbed, removed, or disturbed by demolition activities, or when working in asbestos abatement, but specific state and local regulations apply. Anyone working in asbestos abatement must be licensed by their state agency after completing a required course and passing an exam. 

This duty applies to the person(s) responsible for the management and upkeep of the premises and aims to make sure that ACM is correctly identified that risk assessments are made, and that other people on the premises are sufficiently protected. 

Asbestos is a hazardous material that requires special handling and disposal procedures to protect both your health and the environment. This involves ensuring any waste is double bagged in asbestos waste bags.