Mold Remediation: The Ultimate Guide

How Can You Find a Mold Remediation Company?

To begin your mold removal company search - ask your family members, friends, and people you work with for references. A quick on-line review inside an unbiased authority and reputable database will also provide a shortlist. If you still need more options, two valuable sources are highly regarded real estate agents and mold testing laboratories in your area.

Having a list of experienced companies to interview and getting a second (or even a third) estimate is critical. Homeowner Christina Rosepapa shares, "I was caught off guard after receiving the initial estimate from the first contractor. Thankfully, we had a second mold remediation company on our list with better credentials. They were able to execute a solid statement of work that was a significantly smaller investment. We ended up saving thousands of dollars and regaining our peace of mind once they completed the project."

What License or Certifications Should a Mold Remediation Contractor Have?

A small portion of the states regulate mold remediation licensing: Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. However, several other states have enacted mold legislation. 

In Canada, the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) guidelines require contractors to provide a liability insurance certificate with a Pollution Liability Policy (e.g., containing mold liability). They also require the contractor to confirm possession of their Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) paperwork, and they must provide successful evidence of experience and references for similar projects. CCA requirements for mold remediation training documentation include proof that supervisors and workers have appropriate training procedures to be utilized.

Advancing technology in the cleaning and restoration industry has led to an expanded number of companies in the field. Given these choices, it can make it difficult for consumers to be confident the company they speak with will be worth the investment. For clarity, experts suggest working with businesses certified by organizations such as:

• The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC)
• Restoration Industry Association (RIA), or
• The American Indoor Air Quality Council (AIAQ).

What Is the Mold Removal Process?

Mold remediation is often broken down into four main steps: 

• Step 1: Removal of mold-infested, water-damaged materials from the impacted area. 
• Step 2: Disinfecting and cleaning of carpet, walls, and personal items.
• Step 3: Tearing out drywall and studs if mold damage is extensive.
• Step 4: Air cleaning with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration.

*Noteworthy, if the mold is wide-spread, it is a good idea to live outside of the residence during the remediation.

What Equipment is Used for Mold Removal?

Specific to the tools and equipment: remediation specialists typically use HEPA filters, cleaners, wet vacuums, HEPA vacuums, biocides (disinfectants), and personal protective equipment. Safety precautions are essential in mold remediation to prevent both exposure to and spread of hazards. Gloves, goggles, disposable protective clothing, and a professionally fitted respirator are typically needed to protect everyone involved in remediation.

Do You Need to Test for Mold? 

There are several cases where a mold inspection and mold testing is a good idea: 

• If visible mold is not present, but the smell of mold is. An inspection and test can reveal whether elevated levels of mold are in the area and potentially the location.
• If plumbing leaks or moisture issues have occurred, and there is suspicion that mold may be present in the air and behind walls.
• Post mold removal testing to validate the remediation was successful.  
• Suppose there are specific health issues. Sherlock Homes & Mold Inspection advises that in certain situations, a patient could have a health issue that doctors are struggling to diagnose, but they have mold-related symptoms (e.g., sneezing, coughing, headaches et al.,). At this point, a mold inspection and test could help to confirm whether the doctor's or patient's suspicions that a mold problem exists.
• Testing and results that support real estate transactions.
• Tenant/landlord disputes about if there is a mold problem.
• If someone thinks they see or smell mold but are not sure.

What Needs to Be in a Mold Remediation Contract? 

The following points need to be in a contract with a mold remediator:

1. Drawing or survey that details square feet, rooms, or sections of the remediation area.  
2. Identify how much time it will take to complete the remediation. 
3. Itemized list of materials (e.g., lumber, wallboard, carpet and padding, paint) required to complete the remediation.
4. Which party (the contractor or the homeowner) will provide the renovation materials.
5. Confirm how to handle the contaminated materials and whether the homeowner or contractor will remove debris from the site.
6. Clarify warranties of remediation work and contract guarantees
7. Cleanup procedures and product usage, as well as a cost breakdown and total price cap.

Remember to ask for proof of education or training sessions on mold remediation and check with the education or training firms specified to determine that the contractor has completed the program or certification. It is also essential to ask for references from clients for whom the contractors have performed mold remediation work.

How Long Does It Take To Remove Mold?

The length of time it takes for the mold remediation process depends on many factors. These factors include the mold's volume in the impacted area, the mold's location, and the materials it grows on. The average mold remediation takes anywhere from 1 day to 5 days. If demolition and rebuilding take place in extreme cases, the timeline may expand to 14 days.

Can a General Contractor Do Mold Remediation?

A general contractor is a professional that will make the repairs and renovate a home after the mold remediation. However, they are not qualified to handle the active mold present in a home, so they should begin the remodel of your home following the remediation.

What Is the Average Cost of Mold Remediation?

Although HomeAdvisor has identified a range of $1,119 to $3,325 as an average for fees, HouseLogic by REALTORS® shares that larger jobs may cost upwards of US$6,000.

Experts will tell you that each mold remediation case is different and unique, translating into the final price. Other variables come into play when you consider that the follow-on renovations may be a more considerable investment than the mold removal depending on the extent of damage (e.g., rebuilding walls, new flooring, et al.) and area remediated.