When hiring an IEP, it’s crucial to ensure you’re working with someone knowledgeable, reliable, and ethical. Here are some “red flags” consumers should watch out for to avoid unqualified or unscrupulous professionals:

• Lack of Licensure (if required): Professionals in this field should have a current active license from the state if required.
• Lack of Credentials or Certifications: Professionals in this field should have relevant certifications from recognized organizations. A lack of credentials is a significant red flag.
• Recommending Products or Services for Personal Profit: Be cautious if a consultant aggressively recommends specific products or services that they sell directly, especially if they do not provide options or comparisons with other products. While it’s not uncommon for professionals to have preferred tools or methods, transparency about their affiliations and the reason for their recommendations is crucial. A consultant should prioritize your best interests and health, offering a range of solutions rather than pushing their own products or services for financial gain.
• National Companies that Sub-Contract to Local Assessment Consultants: Beware of national marketing companies that advertise services, and then simply subcontract to local assessors, taking a referral fee or a percentage of the fees in return with no additional value added.
• No References or Reviews: A reputable consultant should be able to provide references or have online reviews from previous clients. Be cautious if they cannot offer any evidence of their past work or if all reviews are negative.
• High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of consultants who use fear-mongering or high-pressure sales tactics to convince you of an immediate need for their services. A professional should provide a calm, informed assessment of your situation.
• One-Size-Fits-All Solutions: Every indoor environment is unique. Be skeptical of consultants who offer generic solutions without a thorough assessment of your specific situation.
• Lack of Detailed Reports: A reputable IEP will provide detailed reports explaining their findings, the implications, and recommended actions. Be cautious if they offer vague explanations or avoid providing written documentation.
• Conflicts of Interest: Some consultants might have financial ties to remediation companies. While not inherently wrong, this should be disclosed upfront. Be cautious if a consultant pressures you to use a specific remediation service without a clear explanation.
• Unusually Low or High Fees: While cost alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor, extremely low bids or high quotes compared to other professionals may indicate a lack of experience or an attempt to overcharge.
• Lack of Communication: A professional should be willing to answer your questions and explain their process. If they’re evasive, overly technical to the point of confusion, or unresponsive, consider it a red flag.
• Not Offering a Post-Remediation Plan: A thorough consultant doesn’t just identify problems; they should also offer solutions and preventive measures. Lack of guidance for after the assessment is a concern.
• Rushing the Inspection: A comprehensive indoor environmental assessment cannot be done in a hurry. If a consultant seems to be rushing through the inspection without paying attention to details, it’s a bad sign.
• Not Using Proper Equipment: The use of specialized equipment, like moisture meters and air sampling devices, is often necessary for a thorough assessment. Be cautious of consultants who rely solely on visual inspections.
• No Liability Insurance: Professional consultants should carry liability insurance to protect themselves and their clients. Lack of insurance is a red flag.
• Overpromising Results: Be skeptical of consultants who guarantee to completely eliminate all mold or promise unrealistic outcomes. Such guarantees are not credible in this field.

SUMMARY

Choosing the right IEP is crucial for accurately assessing and addressing indoor environmental issues. It’s important to do your research, ask for credentials and references, and trust your instincts when selecting a professional to ensure a safe and healthy indoor environment.