Restorations by Highmark

Bloomington's humid climate and older housing stock create ideal conditions for mold growth. With average humidity around 70% and a median home built in 1971, many houses here are vulnerable to moisture problems that develop quietly behind walls and under floors. When you suspect mold, it's tempting to call the first company that appears in a search, but it's worth pausing before you dial. Restorations by Highmark is listed as a mold inspector in Bloomington, but here's something important: inspectors who also perform remediation have a built-in conflict of interest. Industry standards exist precisely because a company profits when an inspection uncovers bigger problems.

Before hiring anyone for mold inspection work, verify they hold IICRC S520 certification and check that they're licensed by Minnesota's Department of Labor and Industry. A standalone mold inspection typically costs between $200 and $600 in this region, so get a quote upfront. The smartest move is to use an inspector who doesn't do remediation work, then hire a separate contractor if removal is actually needed. Ask any inspector directly: "Do you perform mold remediation as well as inspection?" If they say yes, keep looking.