Scottsdale Desert Inspections Inc.

Scottsdale's dry climate - averaging just 33% relative humidity and 8 inches of rain annually - might make mold seem unlikely. But the median home here was built in 1990, and older properties can hide moisture problems in walls, attics, and crawl spaces that aren't obvious to the eye. If you're concerned about mold, Scottsdale Desert Inspections Inc. offers inspection services. A standalone mold inspection in this region typically costs between $200 and $600, depending on your home's size and what areas need checking.

One thing to know before you call: inspectors who also perform mold remediation have a financial incentive to recommend expensive treatments, which creates a conflict of interest under industry standards. Before hiring anyone, verify they hold a valid ROC (Registrar of Contractors) license if they'll be doing remediation work - you can check their license status at azroc.gov. Ask upfront whether the inspector performs both inspection and remediation, and if so, consider getting a second opinion before moving forward with any treatment plan.