I selected Paragon Industrial from their website because it was the only listed local mold remediation company in the area and the technical expertise claims made in their website. I was expecting a high level of professional protocol, conduct and ethical behavior which was not in evidence. After a brief walk-thru/inspection of our home where I pointed out 5 areas of concern, I was verbally quoted a price for 6 air quality tests with the goal of locating and identifying all mold types and their toxicity. Calibrated air samples were to be taken and sent off to an independent testing lab for analysis, classification, percentage of each component and degree of toxicity.
When I asked for a written proposal confirming that sampling and testing work, I was told that such a document was not typically provided. They (Rick and Susan, the owners) had come with the expectation that they would perform the air sample testing on this first visit to our home. They were reluctant to provide a written proposal. They also were very reluctant to produce a written report explaining the results of the air quality testing by the outside testing lab they use for the analysis of the air quality samples. After an extended discussion concerning my requirements, they finally agreed to do so for an additional fee ($125) with some reservations.
The ensuing discussions lead to my conclusion that there was the strong possibility of a conflict of interest if Paragon Industrial were selected to do the entire project without the properly detailed documentation and suitable independent inspections. When I mentioned this, both owners denied that would be the case. My major concerns are our family's health as occupants of the home and it's marketability in the future if complete documented transparency in solving this problem is not available. This was made clear near the end of our discussion.
Approximately 45 minutes after their departure, I received an email from Susan stating: "Upon reflection of our discussion today, we are not interested in pursuing your project."
That was the same conclusion I had reached during our conversations, which I fully expected and certainly agreed with. I have no problem with someone or anyone who does not want to do work for me or do business with me, nor I with them.
Just do not try to sell me something of this importance and magnitude without a written proposal with terms and conditions clearly set forth and a definitive chain of documented performance and results. Based upon Paragon's reluctance, resistance and lack of appreciation for the necessity of independent inspection and documentation of the remediation work, I would not in any case contract with Paragon Industrial for any work of any kind under those terms.
To do so would be paramount to signing a blank check!
"Caveat emptor" read more
