A river city
Sacramento sits where the American and Sacramento rivers meet. The city says more than 100 miles of levees protect more than two-thirds of it, and its big storms have historically come in December, January, and February. After high water, a wet crawl space, or a roof leak, a musty smell can be the first sign of a moisture problem.
Fog season
From late October through February, thick tule fog settles over the Central Valley on many nights, according to the National Weather Service. Damp, cool weeks are when a slow leak or poor venting in a bathroom or laundry room tends to show up.
Older neighborhoods
About half of Sacramento's homes were built before 1980, and about 1 in 9 before 1940, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. Most homes in the city are detached houses.
Inspection or testing?
Start with an inspection by a testing partner: a look at stains and growth, plus moisture readings. Samples for lab analysis help most when moisture may be hidden. If you can already see mold or smell dampness, the California Department of Public Health says testing usually isn't needed, and finding the water source matters more.
The credential
California doesn't license mold testers. Mold partners must hold a recognized mold certification. Ask which certification the person visiting holds.
How Request a tester works
Tell us the job and your ZIP. We send your request to a testing partner who covers Sacramento, where one is available. The partner contacts you, quotes the price, and sends the invoice.
Save at least $100 with the Top Test Connect service credit.
Credit applies when you book with the partner testing company we match you with. One credit per request, no cash value.
No obligation. You never have to use the tester we match you with.