Beyond looking for signs of moisture (discolorations, musty odor, wetness, etc.), you could hire a home inspector experienced in conducting environmental assessments related to moisture and mold. Moisture sensing devices, including moisture meters, found at some hardware stores or from sources on the Internet can also be used. Sonar moisture sensors can screen for wetness behind a surface. Pin type moisture meters can give a more precise and numerical measure. To check in the walls, another option is to remove the baseboard to view surfaces behind the trim for signs of moisture or mold and to detect any odors. A home inspector may use a borescope tool that can be used to view inner wall cavities. A small hole (about one-half inch) is drilled into the cavity where problem areas may occur, and the scope is inserted to peer inside the wall. The scope has a light and an adjustment for focus. The hole can be patched when you are finished. Make sure to shut off the electricity to the area before drilling the small holes.

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