Shield Guard Home Inspections

Shield Guard Home Inspections holds a 5-star rating across 248 Google reviews, which carries real weight in Albany, where the average home was built in 1948 and the climate - 71% relative humidity and 39 inches of annual rainfall - creates persistent moisture challenges. For older homes in these conditions, mold risk is genuine, and a highly-rated inspector matters. A standalone mold inspection in this region typically costs $200 to $600, making it a straightforward step before you buy or if you suspect a problem.

Before you hire, verify that Shield Guard's inspectors hold the proper New York State licensing. Mold assessment and remediation contractors in New York must be licensed by the NY Department of Labor, and you can confirm their credentials at mpwr-public.labor.ny.gov. One important caveat: if Shield Guard offers both mold inspection and remediation services, that combination creates a conflict of interest under industry standards, since the inspector would profit from finding work. Ask directly whether they perform remediation, and if they do, consider getting a separate, independent mold assessment.