Orlando Mold Remediator accused of running fraud scheme arrested Monday

John P. Lapotaire, CIEC

An Orlando Mold Remediator was preforming both Mold Inspections and Mold Remediation, a practice now Illegal in Florida.

Is this a sign of things to come?

Will we see more arrest of Mold Remediators preforming Mold Inspections just to secure mold remediation jobs?

A company who performs your mold inspection and testing should be independent of any other interest especially mold remediation.

This is currently the mold industry’s #1 conflict of interest, as recognized by the more respected powers in this old, but now re-born, and rapidly evolving industry.

More states, like Florida, are finding it necessary to step in and protect their citizens by establishing Laws and licensing to prevent this serious conflict of interest.

The Orlando Sentinel ran the following story Tue Feb 22, 2011

Orlando SentinelBy Amy Pavuk,

The owner of an Orlando mold inspection and remediation business was arrested Monday on charges that he falsified testing records and defrauded customers, the Department of Environmental Protection said.

The mold remediator now, faces more than three dozen criminal charges ranging from grand theft to insurance fraud to violating the RICO Act.

According to DEP, the mold remediator offered his services to homeowners, businesses and apartment complexes in Orlando, Fort Myers and the West Palm Beach areas from April 2007 to November 2008.

During that time, DEP alleges, mold remediator obtained samples that he told his clients would be tested, however, no testing occurred.

Authorities say mold remediator provided fictitious laboratory reports to clients that were extremely technical.

He then offered assistance in performing “remediation,” for the mold problems — tearing out walls, carpet, flooring and cabinets — in order to remove the supposed mold.

During the “remediation,” the mold was not always removed properly, leaving clients with continuing problems.

Many clients moved or lost their homes, DEP said.

During that timeframe, authorities say, mold remediator received more than $239,000 for fraudulent laboratory testing and remediation work.

There are more than 29 victims, DEP said.

apavuk@tribune.com or 407-420-5735.

•John P. Lapotaire, CIEC•Certified Indoor Environmental Consultant•Microshield Environmental Services, LLC• www.Microshield-ES.com