I sent a proposal for about $4200 for indoor testing at my home following remediation after a fire in the basement. The insurance company refused to pay for it so I had the company (which is owned by Service Master) do modified testing that I paid for–about $1700. The tester used a chemical sponge to wipe the areas before he took samples to send to the lab. I showed him a pile of soot on the floor and he wiped it first before testing it so everything came up with no soot found. He only wanted to do things most home owners would ask for replacement, like the refrigerator, stove, furnace etc. He didn’t want to do the drywall which had obvious soot on it. He didn’t want to test the air either. I’ve been trying to find a different company to come out and test but I think my first company contacted them and told them not to service me because they all don’t follow through on my request. One sent me to a full mailbox, another has to check something with the lab first etc. etc. I’m not sure how to find an industrial hygienist who is willing to work for the homeowner rather than the insurance company. Any suggestions?
Lynn Marie Hamsen asked 11 months ago 
Sarah Parker Expert answered 11 months ago Hello Lynn,
Sorry to hear about your claim issue. Finding professionals to work with for specialized testing can be a challenge in any claim, dispute or not.
My first suggestion is to search in United Policyholders’ Find Help Directory, for a professional that specializes in mitigation/remediation.
Here are some additional resources from United Policyholders:
- Smoke Damage Q&A With a Certified Industrial Hygienist
- Partial Losses – Working With an Industrial Hygienist
- Sample Letter (will need to be modified for your claim)
- Smoke Restoration Guide
Documenting why you feel the testing method of the cheaper industrial hygienist was incorrect, and submitting that to your insurance company, may be helpful in any future requests for coverage for a new test. If you continue to face issues, sending a complaint to the CEO of the insurance carrier, or on social media, may possibly be helpful in possibly escalating and reconciling your concerns.
I hope that helps!