Mescher Home Inspections

Mescher Home Inspections carries a 5-star rating across 1,031 Google reviews, which speaks to their track record in Des Moines' challenging climate. With the region averaging 66% humidity and 36 inches of annual rainfall each year, moisture problems are common in homes built around the median age of 1960. That consistent rating suggests homeowners have found reliable service when dealing with the inspection phase of potential mold issues, which typically costs $200-$600 for a standalone assessment in this area.

Before hiring, verify that Mescher Home Inspections is properly registered and carries appropriate insurance. Iowa doesn't mandate a specific mold remediation license, so ask whether inspectors hold IICRC S520 certification - the industry standard. One important caveat: if the company performs both mold inspection and remediation work, that dual role creates a conflict of interest under industry standards, since inspectors who also do the cleanup work have financial incentive to recommend treatment. Ask directly whether they inspect only or also handle remediation.