Thermal (Infrared) Imaging

This inspection method uses a camera that records infrared light, just below visible light on the spectrum. Thermal imaging detects and records surface temperature differences, which often correlate to moisture problems, building defects and other building problems. Thermal imaging is especially effective at rapidly detecting the materials that have been affected as the result of a water damage event, and at documenting the restoration drying process. It is also widely used for inspecting low-slope, built-up or membrane roofs and is an effective means of locating roof leaks so they can be repaired. Proper use of thermography requires extensive training and experience.

Areas serviced

IET’s office is located in Clearwater, in the Tampa Bay area. We serve the entire state of Florida, with many jobs performed in the Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples, Ocala, Lakeland, Gainesville and Orlando areas. Counties regularly serviced include Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, Sumter, Lake, Seminole, Volusia, Brevard, Orange, Polk, Hardee, De Soto, Charlotte, Lee, Sarasota and Manatee. We provide services on request in more distant areas, such as the Jacksonville area and SE Florida, and have also handled projects throughout the continental United States, Hawaii, Central and South America, Canada, Europe and the Caribbean.

Water damage restoration consulting

IET personnel have extensive experience drying water-damaged buildings, training restorers to properly perform water damage restoration and in developing industry standards for this service. Immediate, effective response and rapid setup of an effective drying system is crucial. Delay of just a day or two can sometimes result in hundreds of thousands of dollars of additional damage to a large building. IET works with restoration contractors, building owners or insurance personnel to insure that restoration work is done in a way that minimizes unnecessary damage, as well as to document that work is completed efficiently and cost-effectively.

Mold sampling

When IET uses viable sampling methods for bacteria, mold, etc., samples from air, surface, dust or bulk material are obtained and submitted to an AIHA-certified laboratory, which cultures (grows) the sample in an incubator. The sample is then analyzed and the laboratory report returned to IET, who interprets the data and adds it to data from other sources to produce our report.

When IET uses non-viable mold sampling methods, we obtain air, surface or bulk material samples. They can be analyzed in our in-house laboratory using semi-quantitative methods, or they can be prescreened in-house and then submitted to an AIHA-certified laboratory for comprehensive quantitative analysis. The sample results are interpreted by IET and compiled with data from other sources to produce our report.

Real estate (pre-purchase) inspections

Concerns about moisture or mold problems in a building can reduce its selling price or cause it to be on the market longer before selling. IET frequently performs inspections for the purpose of determining whether such problems appear to be present in a structure, and to make brief recommendations as to how to fix them if found. A report from IET indicating that such problems do not appear to be present will often reassure concerned purchasers.

Building science investigations

Many moisture and mold problems in buildings, especially in hot/humid climates, are related to building design, construction and maintenance issues of the building itself, or of its HVAC system or other components. For example, a building operating under negative pressure in such a climate will pull humid outside air in through any crack. This can result in condensation, mold growth and deterioration of building materials in structural cavities, often not discovered for extended periods. IET specializes in using structure and HVAC system pressure testing and other methods to define building science issues that are affecting the performance of the building and its environmental quality, and in developing recommendations for correcting these issues cost-effectively.

Commercial building investigations

Moisture and mold problems develop in commercial reasons for the same reasons they develop in other buildings. In addition to the health, building material deterioration and property values posed in residential buildings, owners or occupants of commercial structures may also have to deal with liability, workers compensation and OSHA issues. IET has helped solve hundreds of commercial building problems.

Mold investigations

Excess moisture or water is the single most important factor for mold amplification (mold, bacteria and dust mites). This can lead to potential health problems and the destruction of building materials. To assess and monitor, we utilize state of the art instrumentation to measure humidity levels in the air, the moisture load in building materials (drywall, concrete, ceilings, wood framing, carpet), and identify mold reservoirs and problem areas.

Contaminated water (sewage) investigations

When sewage and other contaminated water (black water) penetrates into building materials and assemblies, sanitary conditions become significant, potentially life-threatening, health risks can be created. IET uses mold sampling and other investigative methods to develop a protocol for returning the structure to safe, sanitary conditions. Post-remediation (clearance) inspections can verify that the protocol achieved its goal before reconstruction or reoccupancy.

Project oversight services

IET is available to provide project oversight services on water damage and mold/sewage remediation projects. We are retained by insurers, property owners and contractors, who recognize that our goal is to ensure that all work is completed in compliance with the relevant contracts and standards, and in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

Insurance and litigation support

The insurance and legal communities require experienced experts to evaluate insurance claims and to assess the merit of legal cases. IET, Inc. delivers the support necessary to review previous testing reports, conduct testing, and documentation of current building conditions. Our team provides you with data analysis, remediation protocols, project monitoring, clearance testing and expert testimony.

Construction oversight services (commercial and residential)

Moisture intrusion, humidity control and other issues that significantly impact future indoor environmental quality of a building are not usually addressed in building code inspections. Dealing with these issues is much easier and less expensive prior to and during construction than it is to make corrections after construction is complete. IET reviews building plans, makes recommendations for materials to be used, and then regularly inspects the structure while it is being built to ensure that the completed work complies fully with the plans.

Window leak testing

During building construction, IET uses negative pressure testing designated by AAMA and ASTM to document that windows and their installation meet the appropriate standard for resistance against leakage from windblown rain. It is critical in high wind situations for window and building performance that these standards are met.

Residential inspections

Good indoor environmental quality (IEQ) is crucial for a healthy, comfortable home. Moisture intrusion and humidity control are the most important IEQ issues in Florida’s hot/humid climate. When plumbing supply lines or AC systems fail, building materials can become wet. Even damp materials can cause mold growth. IET’s services can help solve moisture intrusion, humidity control, water damage and mold amplification issues in homes.

Electromagnetic field (EMF) investigations

The scientific community is divided about possible health effects of EMF exposure, but many experts agree on the concept of Prudent Avoidance. Therefore, IET identifies high exposure areas and then uses applied physics to reduce exposure to an acceptable level. This protects people and sensitive electronic devices. We have the equipment and experience to measure and record the broad range of electromagnetic radiation with data loggers and sensors. IET also consults on shielding techniques and designs low EMF wiring systems for buildings.

Hurricane and disaster preparedness plans

Large commercial buildings in the path of a hurricane often suffer significant water damage even when structural damage is minimal. Under usual conditions, such water damage can usually be dried quickly with little mold growth resulting. However, in the aftermath of a major storm, the delivery of restoration services is highly disrupted, resulting in delays of days or weeks before restoration starts. This can allow mold growth to happen, which can lead to an exponential increase in the cost of restoration and of disruption to occupants. The only effective way to ensure rapid drying and quick return to service of a building of this type is to have a drying plan in place before the hurricane, with an out-of-area contractor designated to provide services and equipment moved from an unaffected area. IET specializes in working with building managers to set up such plans.

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)

SBS is a condition of generalized discomfort associated with particular indoor environments. Symptoms often include minor to moderate respiratory problems, headache, and other non-specific symptoms. Evidence indicates that SBS is primarily caused by mold contaminants (mold/bacteria, etc.) and their by-products. IET specializes in locating and characterizing these contaminants and in developing protocols for removing them and returning the environment to “normal” conditions.

Building Related Illness (BRI)

BRI is a catch-all term for a diagnosable illness directly connected to exposure in a particular building environment. Unlike SBS, a particular defined disease is involved, such as infections, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, “humidifier fever,” Legionnaire’s disease, etc. While diagnosing BRI is a medical issue, IET is experienced in locating, characterizing the contaminants causing the exposure and in developing protocols for removing them and returning the environment to “normal” or healthful conditions.