Hi Guys - I'm not a HI at least where you are coming from. My work is related to Infrared inspection and water damage consulting as well as mold assessment for both commercial and residential properties. The questions raised here are interesting.

IR cannot see mold - It is simply measuring surface temps where it is pointed. I am called in to identify locations that have been affected by moisture, a task well suited for the camera amoung others. Having said that I will go on to say that I have found mold as a result of using the camera but what is usually the case is that the moisture is repeditive and that was the source of the mold. The camera again can allow a fairly quick sweep of ceilings and walls and shows suspect areas that need to be looked at closer with a moistue meter the verifing tool. The camera saves my knees.

Regarding mold - As stated above air tests are not the answer in all cases. When it comes down to it the client could never afford to have the number of tests taken that would make the results a statiscal reality. They are simply a "snap shot in time". The IESO trained the CRMI's to take air samples in a two story residence 1 up, 1 down, 1 outside. That generally will tell you what the air quality was at the time of the tests and may indicate that youre client needs further and more indepth inspections. But if you actually see mold under the sink for instance a tape lift or swab will provide you with accurate information as to what you saw and will support your photos.

If the neighbor happens to be turning over his compost pile the outside air will be an issue that will have a perhaps negative bearing on the indoor findings and could mask a problem.

Fungal amplification does not necessarly mean it is airborne.

So for what it is worth I would not promote the IR Camera as a mold locating tool.

Greg D. Dames
National ThermoGraphic Inspections
Pacific Mold Assessment